IDA Valencia was proud to host Mike Brizendine, Head Coach of Virginia Tech Men’s Soccer, for a multi-day visit that combined player scouting, academy immersion, and high-level collaboration. The visit highlighted the growing connection between international development platforms like IDA and elite NCAA Division I programs.
Coach Brizendine’s time in Valencia offered a comprehensive look at the IDA model—from how we develop players on the pitch to how we prepare them off it. He toured the full academy campus, including residence life and training facilities, and engaged directly with our technical staff to understand the structure, daily routines, and long-term vision of IDA.
Throughout his visit, Coach Mike observed training sessions across several teams, including U18, U19, and Navy squads. He also attended live match play—watching both the Quart Senior and Quart B teams—where he was able to assess players in real game environments. He noted both the depth of talent within the academy and the professionalism of the matchday atmosphere, identifying several standout players who met the profile for NCAA Division I competition.
Players participated in a College Pathways Workshop led by Michael Michailidis, IDA’s College Placement Consultant. The session gave players insight into the recruitment process, expectations of U.S. college coaches, and how to best position themselves academically and athletically. Following the workshop, Coach Mike and Michael held individual one-on-one meetings with student-athletes exploring the U.S. college pathway—providing direct, personalized guidance that players found incredibly valuable.
Coach Brizendine also engaged in thoughtful discussions with IDA’s Technical Director of Football, U.S. Consultant, and Director of Football about Virginia Tech’s playing style, recruitment needs, and how IDA can continue aligning its development model with the standards of top collegiate programs. He spent time with coaching staff at the residence, exchanging ideas on training methodology and fostering a culture that prepares players for life on and off the field.
For the players at IDA Valencia, the visit was more than just an opportunity to be scouted—it was a real-world connection to their goals. Being seen and evaluated by a coach from one of the top NCAA programs brought energy and purpose to the week. It also reinforced the value of international development pathways and the unique exposure IDA offers through its global network.
At IDA, our mission is to develop players technically, tactically, and personally—while opening doors to the next level. Visits like this bring that mission to life and provide our student-athletes with meaningful access to college opportunities.
We thank Coach Brizendine for his time, insights, and support, and look forward to continuing to build a strong relationship with Virginia Tech and other top collegiate programs across the U.S.
In the dynamic world of youth football, partnerships play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aspiring athletes. One standout collaboration is between the International Development Academy (IDA) and Toronto United FC. This alliance not only nurtures talent but also creates genuine pathways for Canadian players to grow and compete on a global stage.
A testament to the partnership’s success is the journey of three young athletes — Sebastien Blanchet, Liam Torres-Cook, and Malcolm Thompson. Their connection with IDA began at a 2023 summer camp, originally intended as an opportunity to showcase their skills. But what started as a camp experience quickly evolved into something much greater. Today, all three are key members of the IDA Valencia Academy. Sebastien and Malcolm are entering their second seasons, while Liam is embarking on his first — marking significant strides in their footballing journeys.
The impact of collaborations like this goes far beyond individual success stories. For clubs like Toronto United FC, international ties offer invaluable exposure, providing players with real opportunities to be scouted, trained, and immersed in high-level football environments. It’s about more than the game — it’s about building resilience, cultural understanding, and the mindset needed to pursue professional aspirations.
Further underscoring their commitment to development, Toronto United FC will compete in the prestigious Mediterranean International Cup (MIC) in April 2025. Organized by Global Sports Experiences, a key IDA partner specializing in sports travel, this tournament is a golden opportunity for players to face off against elite teams from around the world — an experience that could be truly life-changing.
Francisco Albiñana, Global Partnership Manager at IDA, reflects on the importance of this collaboration:
“This alliance is a clear example of how international partnerships are crucial in the world of football for developing student-athletes worldwide. It’s now our third year working with Toronto United FC, a benchmark for youth football development in Toronto, and we’re proud to serve as a platform for their players and community to grow both on and off the pitch.”
Partnerships like the one between IDA and Toronto United FC are redefining the landscape of youth football. They prove that with the right support and opportunities, local talent can not only reach global standards — but exceed them.
At the International Development Academy, we are committed to helping student-athletes reach their full potential—both academically and athletically. That commitment is brought to life through our Spain Academy, where a unique partnership between TPH Academy and Mas Camarena School offers a world-class academic experience built specifically for elite athletes.
Located just minutes from downtown Valencia, Mas Camarena Resort serves as the home base for IDA Spain’s training and residential life. Just steps away, student-athletes pursue their education at Mas Camarena School, one of Spain’s leading international academic institutions. Together with TPH Academy, this partnership allows us to deliver a flexible yet structured academic model that supports every student-athlete’s journey.
The academic program combines TPH Academy’s NCAA-approved online curriculum with on-site academic support and access to Mas Camarena’s dynamic learning environment. Students benefit from a fully accredited education that aligns with NCAA eligibility standards while enjoying the flexibility needed to balance training, competition, and travel.
Student-athletes follow personalized academic pathways, with access to AP, Honors, and Dual Enrollment courses, as well as over 70 online electives in subjects such as languages, business, psychology, and sports science. With consistent oversight from a Head of Academics and dedicated Academic Success Coaches, each student receives individualized support to stay on track and thrive academically.
The setting at Mas Camarena enhances the educational experience even further. Students study in an international environment, collaborate with peers from around the world, and gain access to select in-person academic resources—all while living and training on a campus designed for high-performance athletes.
This hybrid model allows students to manage their daily schedule while still receiving structured academic guidance. Whether working toward college admission, pursuing NCAA eligibility, or exploring future career paths, every IDA Spain student-athlete is supported every step of the way.
At IDA, we don’t believe student-athletes should have to choose between academic success and athletic development. Through our partnership with TPH Academy and Mas Camarena School, IDA Spain offers a premier academic experience that mirrors the ambition and discipline found on the pitch—preparing our athletes to succeed in the classroom, in college, and in life.
To learn more about the IDA Spain academic model or to connect with our team, please contact us HERE.
The International Development Academy is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Dragons High Performance Training in Durban, South Africa.
Following a successful experience at Surf Cup International Salou, Coach Mthunzi, Director and Head Coach of Dragons HPT, saw the potential for a collaboration that would expand opportunities for his players. Through this partnership, Dragons HPT athletes will have full access to IDA’s elite training programs, tournaments, and international experiences, ensuring a pathway for top-tier player development both on and off the field.
What This Partnership Offers Dragons HPT Players
Access to IDA’s global network of programs and competitions
Exposure to international training and recruitment opportunities
Professional high-performance training designed to enhance individual and team development
Clear pathways to collegiate and professional football opportunities
Coach Mthunzi emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating that it will provide “young talents in the Dragons HPT football program with access to world-class training, international exposure, and pathways to professional and academic opportunities abroad.”
By combining IDA’s expertise in global player development with Dragons HPT’s commitment to nurturing local talent, this collaboration will provide young athletes with the resources, training, and exposure needed to reach their full potential.
This partnership marks an important step in expanding international football development and fostering new opportunities for aspiring players.
As part of our ongoing scouting program, International Development Academy is heading to the Easter International Cup in Orlando/Kissimmee, FL, to identify talented players ready to take their game to the next level. Two of our professional coaches will be in attendance, actively seeking athletes who have the potential to thrive in our international programs.
Players aged 15 to 19 will also have the opportunity to train with IDA’s elite coaching staff in a dedicated session designed to showcase their skills. This session will allow players to experience IDA’s methodology, which focuses on technical development, tactical awareness, and the professional training environment that defines our academy.
The training session will take place on Wednesday, April 16th, and will provide a unique chance for players to gain exposure, receive valuable coaching feedback, and immerse themselves in a high-performance training atmosphere.
At IDA, we are committed to developing well-rounded athletes who are prepared to compete at the highest levels. Our international programs offer top-tier coaching, competitive opportunities, and the resources needed for players to elevate their game.
If you are looking to be seen by international coaches and take the next step in your soccer journey, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Registration is free, so sign up today HERE.
The International Development Academy proudly marks its 5th anniversary, celebrating five years of elite training, international competition, and life-changing opportunities for young soccer players. Since its inception in 2020, IDA has grown into a premier global academy, helping players reach college, developing professional athletes, and expanding to new locations worldwide.
A Journey of Excellence: From 2020 to Now
From its beginnings in the United Kingdom and Spain, IDA has continually evolved, introducing cutting-edge training programs and fostering a unique environment where players develop both on and off the field. Over the past five years, IDA has solidified its place as a leader in international player development, celebrating milestones that reflect its growth, impact, and commitment to excellence.
2020: IDA launched its first academies in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Rome in partnership with Rome City Institute, providing a structured pathway for aspiring players to train and compete at an elite level. Early standout players such as Dylan Fox-Arnold, Liam Gilligan, Marcos Sotarello, and Jeremy de Leon set the foundation for what would become a thriving international academy.
2021: The introduction of Surf Cup International Salou marked a significant milestone, bringing together top youth talent from around the world. The tournament quickly established itself as one of the premier international youth competitions, offering players unparalleled exposure and high-level competition. Additionally, IDA UK finished as runners-up in the ADFA Mark Coombs Cup, demonstrating the academy’s growing competitiveness in domestic English football. Launched in 2021, the IDA Partner Program connects clubs, federations, agencies, influencers, coaches, and educational institutions worldwide, expanding opportunities for young athletes.
2022: IDA expanded into Florida, broadening its reach within the U.S. and strengthening its reputation as a global player development hub. This year also saw over 40 IDA players commit to college programs, highlighting IDA’s success in bridging the gap between youth development and collegiate soccer. Meanwhile, IDA UK captured its first major trophy, winning the ADFA Mark Coombs Cup, solidifying its presence as a force in regional English football.
2023: The first-ever IDA summer camp program was launched, welcoming over 80 players for an immersive training experience. Additionally, IDA expanded its global tournament presence with the introduction of Surf Cup International Rome, further enhancing opportunities for young athletes to showcase their talent on an international stage. IDA UK continued its success, finishing as runners-up in the ADFA Mark Coombs Cup for the second time in three years. IDA also expanded its global footprint, partnering with the BH Cup in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. By 2023, the IDA Partner Program surpassed 50 active partners across numerous countries, helping IDA reach new markets, enhance player recruitment, and increase access to top-level competitions and academic pathways.
2024: A historic year for IDA, Jeremy De Leon signed for Real Madrid and traveled with the senior team for the Champions League final, showcasing the caliber of talent developed within the academy. Two IDA players were also drafted into MLS, continuing the academy’s legacy of producing professional-level talent. A partnership with Remarkables, a high-level video analysis tool, was introduced, now included in every player’s tuition to enhance development and scouting opportunities. On the competition front, IDA Valencia U19 Navy won Torneo Caudiel, while IDA Valencia U17 Navy reached the Surf Cup International semifinals. IDA UK reached the Suburban Football League League Cup final, narrowly missing out on the title after a penalty shootout, and finished as runners-up in the ADFA Mark Coombs Cup for the third time. Surf Cup International Morocco was launched, adding another premier event to its growing tournament portfolio. IDA Brazil in partnership with Cruzeiro was launched to mark IDA’s 5th location.
2025: IDA’s momentum continues with major player signings, as Neville Knowles III extends his contract with Villarreal and JD Layman joins Sporting de Gijón. The academy also marks a significant expansion with the launch of IDA Salou-Barcelona, further strengthening its international presence. Over 100 players commit to college programs, demonstrating IDA’s ongoing success in player placement. Additionally, the academy introduces the inaugural IDA Valencia Cup, further establishing its leadership in international youth competition.
With five years of remarkable growth and achievements, IDA remains committed to providing world-class training, competition, and development opportunities for players worldwide. The journey continues, and the future of IDA looks brighter than ever.
Developing Future Soccer Stars
IDA has built a reputation for producing top talent at both the collegiate and professional levels, providing a pathway for players to reach the highest levels of the game. From the UEFA Champions League to the MLS SuperDraft, IDA alumni continue to make their mark on the global soccer stage.
At the professional level, one of the academy’s most inspiring success stories is Jeremy de Leon, who rose from IDA Spain to sign with Real Madrid. His journey exemplifies the elite training and exposure that IDA provides. Other rising stars include Neville Knowles III, who extended his contract with Villarreal, and JD Layman, who secured a professional contract with Sporting de Gijón. The academy’s pipeline to the pro game continues to expand, helping players transition to top clubs in Europe and beyond.
On the collegiate front, IDA continues to place players at some of the most competitive soccer programs in the U.S. Arik Duncan and Harrison Bertos are prime examples of this success, both developing their skills at IDA Valencia before excelling in NCAA soccer and earning selections in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. Duncan became a standout at the University of California, Berkeley, leading the team in goals and points before being drafted 44th overall by CF Montréal. Bertos made his mark at the University of Washington, where his performances earned him a 31st overall selection by San Diego FC. Meanwhile, Jake Jacobi’s commitment to Virginia Tech further highlights IDA’s ability to place players at top Division I programs, ensuring they receive both elite competition and academic opportunities.
Beyond traditional pathways, IDA has also played a transformative role in shaping the lives of players from unique and challenging backgrounds. Harwan Al-Zubaidi’s rise from the streets of Yemen to professional football in Iraq is a testament to the academy’s ability to change lives through soccer. His journey underscores the power of IDA’s training, global exposure, and support in helping young talents break barriers and achieve their dreams.
With each passing year, IDA continues to develop players who not only succeed on the field but also carry the academy’s values and training philosophy into their professional and collegiate careers. The future remains bright as IDA strengthens its global impact, providing opportunities for the next generation of soccer stars.
A Global Soccer Network
IDA has experienced remarkable growth in player enrollment, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for aspiring footballers worldwide. Starting with just 33 players in 2020, the academy has expanded significantly, now supporting over 150 athletes in 2025. This steady increase reflects the growing demand for IDA’s elite training programs and its ability to develop top talent. With players representing more than 32 countries, IDA continues to strengthen its global reach, providing unparalleled opportunities for athletes to elevate their game both on and off the field.
Celebrating Five Years of Impact
As IDA marks its five-year anniversary, it is a moment to reflect on the academy’s journey, growth, and the countless players who have thrived through its programs. From its early beginnings to becoming a global force in player development, IDA has continuously evolved, shaping the futures of young athletes both on and off the field.
“We are incredibly proud of what IDA has achieved in just five years,” said Tommaso Trevisan, IDA COO. “Our mission has always been to provide top-tier soccer development while fostering personal growth, and this milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players, coaches, and staff. We are excited to continue building new opportunities and expanding our impact worldwide.”
With a strong foundation and a clear vision for the future, IDA remains committed to pushing boundaries, connecting players globally, and opening doors for the next generation of talent. The journey so far has been remarkable, and the next chapter promises even greater opportunities for players to develop, compete, and achieve their dreams.
The International Development Academy is excited to announce a significant new partnership with Flamborough Dundas Soccer Club (FDSC), a dynamic force in youth soccer based in Ontario, Canada. This partnership aligns with our mission to expose young athletes to top-tier training and international soccer opportunities, enriching their development paths both academically and athletically.
FDSC, formed from the union of Flamborough Soccer Club and Dundas Youth Soccer Club in 2017, has quickly become a hub for soccer development in the Hamilton District, serving over 2,500 players annually. Their commitment to fostering young talent is evident in their comprehensive soccer programs and dedicated administration.
IDA is set to become a pivotal platform for FDSC players, offering access to our global network and elite training programs. Our collaboration will introduce these players to new levels of competitive play and coaching, giving them exposure to international soccer experiences that broaden their horizons and enhance their skills.
Graham Munro, FDSC’s Technical Director, emphasized the value of this partnership, stating, “We are excited to partner with IDA who have a proven track record in helping players achieve both their academic and soccer goals. We look forward to welcoming IDA coaches to Ontario this summer and provide our players an exceptional soccer experience.”
This partnership represents a bridge between local talent and the global soccer stage, providing FDSC players with unique opportunities to train under seasoned international coaches brought in by IDA. Our aim is not only to elevate their soccer skills but also to instill a broader understanding of the game’s cultural and strategic diversity.
As we prepare to launch this exciting initiative, IDA remains committed to enriching the soccer journeys of FDSC players, ensuring they receive the best possible opportunities for growth and success. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that promises to deliver outstanding benefits to the players and the broader soccer community in Ontario.
Stay tuned for further updates as we gear up to kick off this partnership, promising a summer filled with superior soccer experiences and transformative development for FDSC’s young athletes.
Navigating the diverse landscape of college soccer in the United States presents unique challenges and opportunities. For student-athletes aiming to elevate their game, understanding the distinctions and developmental benefits of transitions from the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) to either the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) or the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is crucial for achieving their highest potential both academically and athletically.
Understanding the Landscape and Transition Benefits: NJCAA, NAIA, and NCAA
The NJCAA serves as a crucial developmental stage for athletes, specifically aimed at honing foundational skills and competitive play to prepare them for advanced levels. Transitioning from NJCAA to NAIA or NCAA represents a strategic move for those advancing their academic and athletic careers. NAIA schools, often comparable to NCAA Division II in terms of competitiveness and academic rigor, debunk the misconception of being a lesser choice. This pathway not only fosters personal and athletic growth but also clearly illustrates that moving from NAIA to powerhouse NCAA schools like Wake Forest, Seattle, and Georgetown is possible with hard work and determination, significantly improving chances of advancing into the professional world.
How IDA Supports Each Transition
At the International Development Academy, we tailor our support to fit the unique pathway of each student-athlete, ensuring readiness for success at all collegiate levels:
Elite Training: Our coaching staff brings professional and international expertise, emphasizing comprehensive development in technical skills, tactical awareness, and physical conditioning.
Competitive Play: Participation in high-quality tournaments and exposure events is crucial, providing a realistic taste of the competitive collegiate environment.
Academic Excellence: We partner with accredited educational institutions to support academic achievements that are essential for collegiate eligibility.
Recruitment Exposure and Placement Services: Our placement services, led by Mike Michailidis at BRUSA Sports, enhance visibility to college scouts, managing applications and transfers to secure the best athletic and academic placements.
Real-Life Success Stories
Nick Akoto: Starting his collegiate soccer career at Tennessee Wesleyan, a NAIA institution, Nick transferred to Keiser University before advancing his career professionally with Tormenta FC and later achieving a significant milestone by signing with Burton Albion.
Sunao Yamamoto: Beginning at Monroe Junior College, a NJCAA institution, Sunao honed his skills and academic record, successfully transferring to Nova Southeastern and receiving several full-ride offers from NCAA Division I schools.
Yuta Toya: Yuta’s journey took him from Briarcliff in the NAIA to NC State and Seattle University in the NCAA. Each transfer marked a significant step up, facilitated by IDA’s support in technical development and showcasing his talents to NCAA scouts.
The journey from NJCAA to NCAA or NAIA is not merely a transition but a significant step towards personal and professional growth. At IDA, we commit to guiding our athletes through these transitions, providing them with the necessary resources and support to succeed at the highest levels of college soccer and beyond.
The International Development Academy is proud to announce the opening of its newest location, IDA Salou-Barcelona, offering aspiring youth soccer players the opportunity to train in one of the most renowned sports hubs in Europe. Located at Mediterranean Sports Hub, IDA Salou-Barcelona will provide players with a world-class training environment, cutting-edge facilities, and an unparalleled educational experience.
This expansion builds on the successful partnership between IDA and Mediterranean Sports Hub, a leading sports complex known for its top-tier infrastructure. The new program will offer a holistic development pathway for players, with monthly visits to the prestigious FC Barcelona campus. This unique opportunity will allow players to learn from elite coaches, train in world-class facilities, and enhance their development both on and off the field.
Frank Araneta, Commercial Director of Mediterranean Sports Hub, expressed his excitement about the continued collaboration: “It’s fantastic to build on our partnership with IDA and have them on the ground all year. This expansion brings even more opportunities for young players to develop their skills, and we are thrilled to be a part of their growth journey.”
The facility itself is one of the best in Europe, with 11 UEFA- and FIFA-approved 11-a-side fields, including 4 natural grass pitches and 7 artificial turf pitches. Additional amenities include a rugby field, 2 beach football fields, and a mini stadium with a 1,000-seat capacity. This world-class infrastructure ensures that IDA players have access to the best possible training environment.
Jordi Gomez, Project Director of Mediterranean Sports Hub, added: “This facility has everything needed to run a world-class program. Any child who joins us at IDA Salou-Barcelona will have an experience that closely mirrors a professional setup, with top-tier coaching, facilities, and resources at their disposal.”
Students attending IDA Salou-Barcelona will also benefit from an accredited education provided by Socrates Educa® International School. This flexible curriculum integrates science, technology, humanities, art, and physical activity while accommodating the unique schedules of student-athletes. The innovative approach to education empowers students to pursue their academic, professional, and athletic goals simultaneously.
In addition to the excellent training facilities, players will enjoy full-board accommodation at Mediterranean Sports Hub, with additional lodging options just a 10-minute walk away at Cambrils Park Resort. The resort offers 500 fully equipped accommodations designed to support the comfort and well-being of athletes.
Tommaso Trevisan, IDA’s Tournament Director, remarked: “Our tournament here has already been a huge success, so it’s only natural that we continue to expand on this great relationship. We’re excited to bring even more players to this world-class location and continue to provide them with exceptional development opportunities.”
With limited spots available—16 field players and 2 goalkeepers—IDA Salou-Barcelona promises to be a game-changer for young soccer talent. Applications are now open for the upcoming season.
As the next chapter of this exciting partnership unfolds, IDA Salou-Barcelona stands as a testament to the commitment to nurturing the next generation of soccer stars, providing them with the resources, environment, and opportunities they need to thrive both on and off the field.
To learn more about IDA Salou-Barcelona, click HERE!
At IDA, player growth and exposure are at the core of our mission. As part of our commitment to providing the best resources for athlete development, we are excited to include Remarkables, a professional video analysis service, in the tuition for all players starting in the 2025/2026 season. This tool will significantly enhance player development by providing detailed insights into individual performance, helping players improve their game and better showcase their skills to scouts and recruiters.
Enhancing Player Development
This professional video analysis tool takes IDA’s commitment to player growth to the next level. Through detailed, data-driven feedback, players gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for improvement. By breaking down match footage into key moments, along with in-depth stats, the tool offers valuable insights that help athletes refine their skills, focus on areas that need attention, and progress consistently throughout the season.
The Power of Video Analysis for Recruitment
One of the key advantages of using this service is its ability to elevate players’ exposure. Highlight videos, integrated with performance data, provide recruiters with a comprehensive view of a player’s abilities. These videos are tailored to showcase the skills that are most important to scouts, helping athletes gain more visibility in a competitive recruitment landscape.
Tracking Progress and Maximizing Exposure
The video analysis tool also offers players the ability to track their development year over year. By consistently reviewing performance data and video footage, players can monitor their improvement, make informed decisions about their training, and stay on the radar of college and professional scouts. This ongoing feedback loop helps athletes stay motivated, improve continuously, and stand out among their peers.
A Valuable Resource for Player Growth
At IDA, we know that providing the right tools is key to helping players reach their full potential. The integration of this professional video analysis service ensures that athletes have the resources they need to excel, whether they are working on their technical abilities, refining their game awareness, or aiming for recruitment opportunities. This service offers a comprehensive, personalized approach to player development, ensuring that each player can maximize their growth and succeed in their soccer journey.
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