International Development Academy (IDA) is excited to introduce a new era for IDA UK.

Through a new partnership with AF Global and the University of Hertfordshire, student-athletes now have the opportunity to pursue a UK university degree while training in an elite football performance environment in England.

This new pathway expands IDA UK into a true dual-career program, combining world-class football development with internationally recognised higher education.

Train in England. Earn a Degree. Build Your Future.

The United Kingdom offers one of the most competitive and culturally rich football environments in the world.

Now, through the AF Global Football Programme at the University of Hertfordshire, student-athletes can combine their passion for football with a globally respected academic degree.

Participants will:

Students can choose from a range of programs including:

Business Degrees
Sport Degrees

Applications can be submitted through the University of Hertfordshire international application portal.

Get Ahead. Go Abroad.

The average NCAA Division I men’s soccer player is 20–21 years old, and many have international or European playing experience.

So why wait until you’re 20 to gain that exposure?

With the IDA UK University pathway, players can begin their journey earlier.

Instead of competing as an 18-year-old freshman in the U.S., student-athletes can:

🇬🇧 Play in England at 18
🎓 Earn a university degree in 3 years
⚽ Train in a professional football culture
💪 Develop physically, tactically, and mentally

Then return to the United States at 21 years old with:

✔ European match experience
✔ A completed undergraduate degree
✔ Greater maturity and development
✔ Two years of NCAA eligibility remaining for a Master’s degree

This pathway gives players a unique competitive advantage.

Why the UK Pathway is Growing

Top NCAA programs increasingly recruit players who have:

The game is global.

Spending three years in the UK allows players to develop:

You return not just older — but better prepared for the next level.

Two Pathways at IDA UK

With this new partnership, IDA UK now offers two distinct pathways for players.

1. University Degree + Football Pathway 

Through the AF Global partnership with the University of Hertfordshire, student-athletes can pursue:

This is the primary IDA UK offering moving forward.

The program launches for male players in the 2026/27 academic year, with a female program expected to launch in 2027/28.

2. IDA UK Gap Year (Reading Campus)

 

IDA will continue to offer its High-Performance Gap Year program in Reading for players seeking a shorter football-only experience.

This option includes:

The Gap Year is ideal for players focused exclusively on football development without an academic program.

A Smarter Pathway for Modern Players

The modern student-athlete needs more than just training.

They need education, experience, and opportunity.

The IDA UK partnership with AF Global and the University of Hertfordshire creates a pathway where players can:

✔ Develop in a professional football culture
✔ Earn a globally recognised degree
✔ Build international experience
✔ Prepare for careers in sport and beyond

This is football with a future.

Learn More
Explore the AF Global Football Programme at the University of Hertfordshire:
https://www.afglobal.football/hertfordshire-university

For Zao Axel Cheron, football always meant dreaming beyond the limits of his surroundings.

Growing up in Haiti, opportunities to play regularly were scarce. Despite his passion for the game, competitive matches were few and far between.

“I was only playing about three games a year in Haiti,” he recalls. “My parents and I thought it would be a good idea to go abroad and pursue my dream.”

At just 15 years old, Zao made a life-changing decision. He left home and traveled to Valencia, Spain, to join IDA — stepping into an environment built around daily development, international competition, and long-term football growth.

Three years later, that decision has opened a door he once never imagined: an opportunity to play college soccer in the United States at Mount Olive University in North Carolina, competing at the NCAA Division II level.

Discovering the Real Level

When Zao first arrived in Spain, the goal was simple: improve.

College soccer in the United States wasn’t something he had even considered.

“No, it was never something we thought about. We didn’t really know much about it.”

What he did discover, however, was the level of football that exists beyond his home country.

Training and competing in Spain quickly exposed him to a much deeper and more competitive global talent pool.

“The level in Spain made me realise there is much more talent in the world than I initially thought,” he says. “If I want to reach my goals, I have to work very hard.”

That realization became one of the defining moments of his development.

When One Year Became Three

Zao originally planned to spend one year at IDA Valencia.

But the progress he felt — both on and off the field — convinced him and his family to continue the journey.

“The plan was to stay one year, but after that first year I realised how much I developed as a player and as a person,” he says. “So we decided it was best to stay longer.”

Over the next three years, the academy environment helped shape his growth.

Daily training, higher expectations, and constant competition pushed him to improve technically — but the biggest transformation happened mentally.

“To be honest, I improved a lot technically, but mentally is where I developed the most.”

Learning to stay confident in difficult moments became part of that growth.

“Not being afraid to lose the ball, for example, or letting negative thoughts affect my game.”

A New Opportunity Emerges

As Zao continued progressing at IDA, a pathway he had never imagined began to appear.

College soccer in the United States.

After reviewing his highlight footage, the coaching staff at Mount Olive University saw potential and offered him the opportunity to join their program.

According to Zao, the opportunity includes a combination of athletic and academic support, allowing him to continue developing both as a player and as a student.

For someone who once didn’t even know this pathway existed, the moment represents a remarkable step forward.

Why Mount Olive

Choosing a university meant finding an environment where he could continue growing.

“I like the level, the weather, and the fact that it’s a Christian school,” he says.

At Mount Olive University, Zao will now experience a new football culture — one very different from the style he developed in Spain.

“I’m excited to see the difference between Spanish football and football in the U.S.”

A Journey Built on Commitment

Leaving Haiti at 15 required courage. Adapting to life and football in another country required discipline and resilience.

Looking back on his time in Spain, Zao recognizes how much the experience shaped him.

The challenges of adapting, competing, and growing far from home strengthened his mindset and confidence.

And those lessons will now travel with him to the next chapter of his career.

A Message to the Next Generation

For young players who dream of following a similar path, Zao offers a message about commitment.

“Your lack of commitment is an insult to people who believe in you,” he says. “When you feel lazy or unmotivated, think about the people who believe in you — your parents, siblings, friends — and try your best to make them proud.”

From Haiti to the NCAA

Three years ago, Zao Cheron left Haiti searching for a stronger football environment.

Through IDA Valencia, he discovered a higher level of the game, developed mentally and technically, and uncovered opportunities he never knew existed.

Now, his journey continues in the United States.

From Haiti, to Spain, to NCAA soccer, Zao’s story is proof that stepping outside your comfort zone can open doors far beyond what you once imagined.

And for him, the journey is just getting started.

Measuring Ourselves Against the Elite

The Hudl Wyscout International Cup provided IDA Valencia U16 with exactly what elite development demands — exposure to professional academies, high-intensity competition, and clear benchmarks for growth.

Facing Manchester United, FC Groningen, Girona FC, and Wycombe Wanderers, the tournament placed our players in one of the most demanding international environments available at youth level.

For Head Coach Luisma Muños, the experience delivered something more valuable than results alone.

“Overall, the experience was extremely valuable from a developmental perspective. We competed against professional academies and high-level international opposition, which allowed us to measure ourselves against the standard we aspire to reach.”
Match Overview

Manchester United – 1–0

IDA opened the tournament against Manchester United in a highly competitive and tactically demanding match. The team remained compact, disciplined, and emotionally controlled throughout.

A small detail in the final minutes determined the result, but the collective maturity and defensive organization stood out.

“We performed at a strong tactical and defensive level. The team remained organized and committed throughout. A small detail made the difference, but the effort and maturity shown were outstanding.”

FC Groningen – 4–0

Against one of the strongest sides in the competition, Groningen imposed a very high tempo from the opening whistle.

While the result reflected the physical and technical intensity of the opponent, the match provided valuable clarity about elite-level demands.

“They set an extremely high tempo from the start. This game gave us very clear insight into the physical and technical standards required at the highest level.”

Girona FC – 3–0

A competitive first half ended 0–0, with IDA showing personality and defensive solidity. The team managed moments well and created opportunities.

The opponent’s increased tempo in the second half proved decisive, but the performance reinforced the team’s ability to compete at a high level.

“The first half showed we can compete when we maintain concentration and discipline. That was one of the most defining moments of the tournament.”

Wycombe Wanderers – 1–0

The final group match was tightly contested and balanced. An isolated mistake separated the teams.

IDA created clear chances but lacked efficiency in front of goal. The structure, however, remained consistent.

“We created clear chances but lacked efficiency in decisive moments. The team maintained structure and emotional control throughout.”
Tactical Identity Under Pressure

Throughout the tournament, IDA Valencia demonstrated strong organization, compact defensive lines, and coordinated shifting — hallmarks of the program’s identity.

One of the most encouraging elements was the players’ tactical flexibility and intelligence.

“From a tactical standpoint, the team displayed strong organization and defensive structure. The players showed the ability to maintain or adjust formation depending on match demands, demonstrating tactical intelligence.”

Competing against international academies increased the cognitive demands of each match — forcing quicker decisions, faster adaptation, and stronger game management.

“Facing different styles and tempos strengthened their tactical understanding and adaptability. That’s where real growth happens.”

Collective Growth Over Individual Spotlight

Rather than highlighting individual performances, Coach Luisma emphasized unity and mentality.

“What stood out most was the group’s unity, work rate, and commitment to the game plan.”

The players handled extended defensive phases, high pressing, and difficult match scenarios with composure and maturity.

Minute management was carefully structured to maintain intensity while protecting physical load, allowing performance standards to remain consistent across all four matches.

Lessons That Move Us Forward

The tournament provided clarity.

Clarity about the intensity required.
Clarity about precision in decisive moments.
Clarity about sustaining performance across all phases of play.

“The most valuable lesson is understanding the level required to compete consistently at the highest standard. We now have concrete benchmarks to guide our development.”

For IDA, this is the purpose of elite competition — not comfort, but exposure.

Not easy wins, but meaningful challenges.

Beyond results, the team represented the IDA identity with professionalism and pride, laying a foundation for continued progression this season.

As Luisma Muños concluded:
“This event aligns perfectly with IDA’s mission — exposing players to elite environments that accelerate both sporting and personal growth.”

For many players in the United States, the pathway to a college soccer scholarship follows a familiar route — club soccer, showcases, and recruitment events. But for some, standing out means taking a different approach. Increasingly, players are choosing to train abroad in academies in Europe to accelerate their development and open new opportunities.

For Max Wetzel, that decision meant leaving Denver, Colorado, and moving to Valencia, Spain to join the IDA Valencia residency programme. In a new environment focused on daily development, high-level competition, and international exposure, he took a significant step forward in his journey.

That experience has now led him to Newman University, where he will compete at the NCAA Division II level.

Looking for Something More

Max grew up playing in the United States, following a traditional development pathway. But as he approached his next step, he began to think differently about what he needed to progress.

“I started thinking about college earlier this year after hearing about my friend’s experience,” he explains. “I felt like it was the best next step for me.”
At the same time, he wanted an environment that would challenge him further — both technically and personally.
“I wanted to go to one of the biggest countries in the world for soccer and experience a different level of the game.”
Choosing to Step Outside the Comfort Zone

Moving to Valencia was not just about improving as a player — it was about growth.

“I think coming to Spain helped me push myself. It took me out of my comfort zone and helped me become a more open person.”

At IDA Valencia, players live, train, and compete in an international environment, surrounded by teammates from different countries and backgrounds.

“You’re exposed to different people, different ways of thinking, and a different style of soccer. It helps you grow in ways you wouldn’t expect.”

Learning Through a Different Game

One of the biggest differences Max experienced was the level and style of play in Spain.

“Playing in Spain made me realise there are new levels to the game.”

Facing technical, fast-paced opposition on a weekly basis forced him to adapt and develop new aspects of his game.

“I had to look at myself and find new ways to improve so I could compete.”

This exposure to a different football culture is a key part of development.

“These challenges push you to become a better player, not just for yourself but for your teammates as well.”
Daily Development in a Professional Environment

At IDA Valencia, development is built around consistency and structure.

Daily training sessions.
Strength and conditioning.
A professional routine.
“Training every day made me smarter, stronger, faster,” Max says. “It helped me develop quicker.”

This kind of environment mirrors the demands of the professional game and helps players raise their standards.

“You have to stay focused every day. It makes you think faster and stay sharp.”

For players aiming to progress, that daily exposure makes a significant difference.

A Pathway to College Soccer

Alongside his development in Valencia, Max worked toward his goal of earning a college soccer scholarship.

Through IDA, he received support both academically and athletically, helping him stand out to college coaches.

“IDA helped me with both my academics and soccer so I could stand out to colleges,” he explains. “They helped me get to a very good school.”

That next step will take him to Newman University, where he will compete at the NCAA Division II level.

“It’s a great school with a strong soccer program. From the first time I saw them play, I liked their style — they play good soccer and win games.”

Just as important was the environment.

“I want to be somewhere that pushes me every day and also gives me a good education.”
Preparing for the Next Level

Transitioning to college soccer brings new physical and mental demands.

Max feels that his time in Spain has prepared him well.

“I know it will be more physical, but I feel Spain has prepared me technically to compete.”

At the same time, he understands that development is ongoing.

“I think I will be challenged mentally as well. There will be difficult moments, but that’s part of improving as a player and as a person.”
Growth Beyond the Pitch

Living in Valencia gave Max experiences that extend beyond soccer.

“Being away from my family helped me mature and understand who I want to be as a person.”

Adapting to a new culture, learning a new language, and connecting with people from around the world all contributed to that growth.

“It was really interesting to experience a different culture. I also learned Spanish and met people with completely different backgrounds.”

Looking back, he is clear on the impact of his decision.

“I know I wouldn’t be in the same position if I didn’t come to IDA. I wouldn’t be the person I am today.”
Looking Ahead

As he prepares to begin his college career in the United States, Max is focused on making the most of the opportunity.

“I want to start, contribute to the team, and earn my degree.”

Like many players, he sees this as part of a longer journey.

“I want to keep improving, take on new challenges, and see where it can take me.”
A Message to Future Players — and Parents

For players considering a similar pathway, Max’s advice is simple.

“I would definitely recommend taking an international pathway.”

The experience, he believes, goes far beyond soccer.

“I’ve met some of my best friends and played with some very talented players. It pushes you to be better.”

For parents, the decision to send a player abroad can be difficult.

But Max offers reassurance.

“Your child will be fine. The coaches and players will welcome them, and they will benefit from the experience more than you think.”
Final Thought

Max’s journey shows how an international experience at a soccer academy in Spain can provide more than just training.

It offers:

• A professional daily environment
• Exposure to high-level competition
• A pathway to college soccer
• And the opportunity to grow as both a player and a person

For those willing to step outside their comfort zone, it can be a defining experience — and, in Max’s case, a pathway to the next level.

At 18, most players are trying to understand what their next step looks like.

Some stay close to home.

Some follow traditional pathways.

Others choose to step into something unfamiliar — an environment that challenges them both as players and as people.

For Gavin Dick, that meant leaving Scotland and moving to Spain to join the IDA Valencia residency programme.

Less than a year later, that decision has led him to a NCAA Division I scholarship at East Tennessee State University.

Building Around the Game

Football has always been central to Gavin’s life.
“My dad and grandad both played professionally, so it was always around me,” he explains. “From a young age, I knew that’s what I wanted to do.”
Coming through the system in Scotland, he was used to competitive football and high expectations. But as he approached the next stage of his journey, he knew he needed an environment that would push him further.
“I wanted to keep progressing, but I wasn’t sure exactly which path to take.”

Choosing an Environment, Not Just a Team

When Gavin first visited IDA Valencia, it wasn’t just about joining another team.
It was about finding the right environment.
“After just a week, I knew it was the right place for me,” he says. “The way everything is structured day to day, the training, the schedule — it’s a serious environment.”
At IDA, the focus goes beyond matches and results. The programme is built around a professional daily structure, where players train consistently, manage their physical development, and are expected to approach each day with intent.
“We train every day, on the pitch and in the gym. It’s similar to what professionals do.”
That level of consistency creates a different kind of accountability.
“You have the opportunity to improve every day, but it’s up to you how much you take from it. If you put everything in, you will improve.”
Just as important was the environment off the pitch.
“The people here make a big difference. Coaches, staff, everyone — they support you, and that helps you settle and focus on your football.”

Developing Through Real Competition

Training is only part of the process. Development also comes from being tested.

During his time in Valencia, Gavin competed against strong academies including Valencia CF, Las Palmas and Castellón — experiences that exposed him to a higher level of play.
“These are some of the best players at my age. It shows you exactly where you need to be.”
Competing in that environment brings clarity.
“You start to understand the level, the speed of the game, the physical side — and what you need to improve.”
But it also builds confidence.
“I felt like I could compete at that level. It’s about being consistent and taking your opportunities.”
This combination of daily training and high-level competition is a key part of the IDA experience — giving players both the preparation and the platform to develop.

Growth Beyond Football

Moving to a new country at 18 brings challenges that go far beyond football.

New language.
New culture.
New routines.

For Gavin, that was part of the appeal.

“I didn’t want to stay in the same place my whole life. I wanted to experience something different.”
Living abroad required him to adapt quickly and become more independent.
“You learn how to deal with things yourself. It helps you grow up.”
The environment at IDA brings together players from different countries and backgrounds, creating a unique community.
“You meet people you probably wouldn’t meet otherwise. Different cultures, different personalities — it opens your perspective.”
That combination of football and life experience is what shapes players in a more complete way.
“It’s not just about improving on the pitch. It’s everything around it as well.”

Learning Through Challenges

Every player’s journey includes setbacks.

For Gavin, one of the biggest challenges came early, when an ankle injury kept him out for over a month after a strong pre-season.

“It was frustrating because I felt like I was building momentum.”
In a new environment, moments like that can be difficult.

But they also become part of the development process.

“The support around me made a big difference. The staff helped me stay focused on recovery and getting back to where I was.”
Experiences like this are often where players grow the most — learning resilience, patience and how to manage the demands of the game.
“It’s part of football. You have to deal with it and move forward.”

A Pathway With Options

One of the key aspects of the IDA programme is the range of pathways available to players.

While continuing his development in Spain, Gavin began to explore opportunities in U.S. college soccer — something he hadn’t fully considered before.

“Before coming here, I didn’t realise how strong that pathway could be.”

Through IDA, he was able to access:

• Direct contact with college coaches

• Showcase matches in front of recruiters

• Support in building his player profile and highlight video

• Ongoing guidance throughout the recruitment process

“They gave me the resources and contacts I needed, which made the process much clearer.”
He also highlights the role of the staff in guiding him.
“Georgios — IDA Valencia’s general manager — helped me a lot. He encouraged me to explore the option and supported me throughout.”

Taking the Next Step

After exploring his options, Gavin committed to East Tennessee State University — a NCAA Division I programme.
“It’s a high level, which is what I was looking for. The facilities are excellent and the programme is very professional.”
The conversations with the coaching staff reinforced his decision.
“Coach Allen has been very clear and positive. It gave me confidence that it’s the right place for me.”

Preparing for What’s Next

As he looks ahead to his move to the U.S., Gavin is focused on being ready to compete.
“Mentally, I feel prepared. Now it’s about making sure I arrive in the best physical condition possible.”
His goals are to continue improving and perform at a high level, while also making the most of the academic opportunity.
“Completing my studies is important as well. It gives you options for the future.”

More Than a Football Experience

Looking back on his time in Valencia, Gavin sees it as more than just a step in his football career.
“It’s changed the way I see things.”
Living and training in a professional environment, competing at a high level, and adapting to a new culture have all played a role in his development.
“You grow as a player, but also as a person. You become more independent, more confident, and more open.”
Those are experiences that stay with you long beyond football.

A Message to Other Players

For players considering a similar move, his advice is simple.
“Go for it.”
“It might feel like a big step, but it’s worth it. It’s helped me a lot, both on and off the pitch.”
At IDA, players are given a platform — a professional environment, exposure to competition, and access to different pathways.

What they do with it is up to them.

“There are different routes into football. Whether it’s college in the U.S. or opportunities in Europe, you just have to take your chance and give it everything.”

Final Thought

Gavin’s journey — from Scotland to Spain, and now to NCAA Division I — is the result of a series of decisions.

To step into a new environment.
To commit to daily development.
To embrace challenges on and off the pitch.

At IDA Valencia, those opportunities exist every day.

For players willing to take them, they can lead anywhere.

Testing the Next Level

This weekend, IDA Valencia’s U16 squad steps into one of the most demanding environments in youth football — the Hudl Wyscout International Cup in Salou, Spain.

Taking place from February 21–22, 2026, the tournament brings together some of Europe’s top academy environments, creating a setting where development is measured not just by results, but by performance, adaptability, and growth.

For IDA players, this is exactly where progress happens.

A Global Group, One Identity

The IDA Valencia U16 squad arrives in Salou as a truly international group.

With 18 players representing multiple regions — including the USA, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America — the team reflects the core of the IDA model: bringing together different football cultures under one shared identity.

This diversity is not just part of the environment — it is part of the learning process.

Players are constantly challenged to communicate, adapt, and perform within a collective structure, mirroring the demands of the modern game.

Competing Against the Best

The Hudl Wyscout International Cup offers a level of competition rarely found in traditional youth tournaments.

Over the course of the weekend, IDA will face professional academy opposition including:

Each match presents a different tactical challenge, different playing style, and a different level of intensity.

This is not about comfortable environments — it’s about testing players in situations that demand more.

More Than a Tournament

While results are always part of the game, the focus for IDA Valencia goes beyond the scoreboard.

The objectives for the tournament are clear:

“This tournament is an important test for our players,” says U16 Head Coach Luisma Muñoz.
“It’s an opportunity to compete at a high level and continue their development in a demanding environment. We want to see personality, intensity, and growth.”

In environments like this, players are not just evaluated on technical ability — but on how they respond, adapt, and compete.

Development in a Real Environment

One of the defining elements of the tournament is its connection to the professional game.

All matches are recorded using Hudl Focus Flex cameras, and made available through Wyscout’s platform — giving players exposure to the same analysis tools used at the highest level.

Players will also take part in an educational session led by Hudl, gaining insight into performance analysis, video breakdown, and the role of data in modern football.

This is not just about playing games — it’s about understanding the game.

Part of the Pathway

For IDA Valencia players, experiences like this are not isolated events — they are part of a broader pathway.

Competing in tournaments like the Hudl Wyscout International Cup allows players to:

The impact of this pathway is already visible.

Players from the group such as Divin Sokpetin (Benin) or Anton Ardelean (Romania) have progressed into competitive club environments within Spain, continuing their development at the next level.

A Different Standard

For many players, this weekend represents more than just matches.

It is an opportunity to step into an environment that mirrors the demands of professional football — where performance matters, decisions are faster, and the margin for error is smaller.

“We’re excited to compete in Salou,” says Divin Sokpetin.
“It’s an opportunity to test ourselves against strong teams and show what we can do.”

Where Development Happens

At IDA, development is not defined by comfort — it is defined by challenge.

The Hudl Wyscout International Cup is another step in that process.

A chance to compete.
A chance to learn.
A chance to grow in an environment that reflects the real demands of the game.

Because progress happens when players are tested — not when it’s easy.

Preparation Matters More Than Ever.

For families navigating the U.S. college soccer pathway today, one thing is clear: the landscape is no longer what it was even a few years ago.

Opportunities still exist — but they require a different level of preparation, timing, and strategy.

Fewer Roster Spots at the Top

Recent changes to Division I roster regulations have significantly reduced the number of available spots. With rosters capped at roughly 26–28 players, coaches are making tougher decisions than ever before.

The result?
Programs are prioritizing players who can contribute immediately — often older, more physically developed, and already accustomed to high-level training environments.

A Ripple Effect Across All Divisions

When Division I spots become harder to access, the impact doesn’t stop there. Many players who would traditionally enter D1 now land in Division II or III, increasing competition throughout the system.

This doesn’t mean fewer total opportunities — it means less margin for error.

The Transfer Portal Changed the Timeline

The transfer portal has accelerated movement across college soccer. Coaches now recruit players with experience, game readiness, and maturity — often favoring those who are prepared to step in right away.

Importantly, taking time before college does not reduce eligibility. When used well, that time can be a powerful advantage.

Why a Purposeful Gap Year Makes Sense

In this environment, players who arrive at college:

often find themselves better positioned from day one.

A year spent training in a professional setting, competing regularly, and gaining life experience can translate into more minutes, a better program fit, and a longer college career.

How IDA Supports This Pathway

The IDA Gap Year is built for players who want to prepare — not pause.

Through structured daily training, competitive environments, international exposure, and optional academic pathways aligned with U.S. college requirements, players use this year to arrive at college ready, not rushed.

The Takeaway

College soccer hasn’t closed its doors.
It’s simply asking players to walk in prepared.

For many families, a well-structured gap year is no longer a backup plan — it’s a smart step forward.

A Pathway That Opens Doors

At IDA, we believe that talent grows when opportunity, structure, and belief come together.
When players are placed in a professional environment that challenges them daily — on the field, off the field, and mentally — pathways begin to open.

This month, G’vani Rojas, an IDA Valencia player, took a major step along that pathway by accepting a full scholarship to Indian Hills Community College (Iowa, USA) — currently ranked the #1 Junior College program in the country and reigning national champions.

His move to the United States will take place on February 16, allowing him to join the team for spring preseason, where Indian Hills will face top NCAA Division I programs. It’s an opportunity that reflects not only his individual commitment and work ethic, but also the environment and support system that helped him get there.

Building the Pathway: IDA as the Starting Point

G’vani’s journey is a clear example of how the IDA pathway is designed to work.

He began at IDA Valencia, where daily exposure to a professional training structure allowed him to develop consistency, discipline, and game understanding. From there, he progressed into competitive Spanish football environments with CD Teruel and UD Vall de Uxó, gaining real match experience against high-level opposition — all while keeping long-term academic opportunities in sight.

IDA Valencia ➡️ CD Teruel ➡️ UD Vall de Uxó ➡️ Indian Hills Community College

Looking back, one moment stands out as a turning point.

“Making my debut with CD Teruel this season was huge for me,” G’vani says.
“Playing against Levante UD’s first team — a club currently competing in La Liga — really showed me how far I’d come.”

That moment wasn’t accidental. It was the result of preparation, exposure, and trust in a process that places players in environments where growth is demanded.

Just as important, however, were the human connections built along the way.

“Beyond football, the friendships I’ve built have been just as meaningful to my journey.”

Choosing a Pathway That Keeps Doors Open

From the start, G’vani understood the value of combining football ambition with education — a core principle of the IDA model.

That mindset was shaped by mentorship and experience.

“A very important mentor in my life, my football psychology coach Rodrigo, played a big role in this decision. He chose the college route himself after growing up at Villarreal, and he always told me it was one of the best decisions he ever made.”

Seeing that professional football opportunities still existed beyond college reinforced G’vani’s belief in the pathway.

“Becoming a professional player is still my goal. This pathway gives me the best balance between football and education.”

The IDA Environment: Preparation Beyond the Game

For G’vani, IDA was not simply a place to train — it was a place that demanded accountability and professionalism from day one.

“IDA played a huge role in my development, both as a player and as a person,” he explains.
“If you put in the work and earn it, IDA gives you real opportunities to compete and prove yourself.”

Arriving at IDA at a young age accelerated his personal growth.

“It helped me mature much faster. I had to take responsibility for myself early on, and that shaped who I am today.”

What truly prepared him for the next level, however, was the daily professional structure.

“The professionalism at IDA was key. The daily schedule — training, gym, recovery, workload — was very similar to my preseason schedule at CD Teruel, who compete in Primera RFEF.”

That alignment between development and real-world football environments is intentional.

“It helped me understand what it takes to perform consistently in a professional setting.”

Turning Opportunity into Reality: The Scholarship

IDA’s role doesn’t end on the pitch — it extends into guidance, exposure, and empowering players to take ownership of their next steps.

G’vani earned his opportunity at Indian Hills by being proactive and prepared.

“I reached out directly to the head coach, Zach Newton. I sent my CV, highlights, and a detailed email introducing myself.”

Supported by his development and experience within the IDA pathway, he took an official visit, observed the team environment, and demonstrated his readiness.

“Receiving a full scholarship meant a lot to me. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity, and excited to prove myself.”

Joining the top-ranked junior college program in the country is a challenge he welcomes.

“What excites me most is the chance to add to the program’s history. I want to compete at the highest level and help the team win another national championship.”

Advice for Current IDA Players and Families

For players currently within the IDA environment — and for families considering this pathway — G’vani’s message is clear.

“Be proactive. Stay on top of the recruiting process, communicate with coaches, and keep them updated.”

“Consistency, communication, and patience are key.”

When asked to describe this moment in his journey, his response reflects both gratitude and clarity.

“I feel truly blessed. A big thank you to Jordi for all his support, and to my family for always believing in me and my decisions.”

Where Potential Meets Opportunity

G’vani Rojas’ story is a powerful example of what can happen when a player is placed in the right environment — one that challenges, supports, and prepares them for what comes next.

At IDA, the goal is not to promise outcomes, but to build pathways, provide structure, and empower players to turn ambition into real opportunity.

For many families and players reading this, the takeaway is simple:
with the right environment, the next step is always possible.

Introducing a New Pre-Collegiate Option for Student-Athletes

At International Development Academy (IDA), we are constantly evolving our ecosystem to better support the long-term academic and athletic goals of our student-athletes. As part of this commitment, IDA is expanding its academic offerings through a new optional Pre-Collegiate pathway, made available in partnership with TPH Academy.

This new option allows eligible IDA athletes to access authentic, accredited U.S. college-level online coursework while continuing to train full-time in a professional football environment — as an add-on to IDA’s core Study, Train, Play experience.

What Is the Pre-Collegiate Pathway?

The Pre-Collegiate pathway is an academic option designed to complement IDA’s football development model by offering student-athletes the opportunity to earn real college credit during their time at IDA.

Through this pathway, students may enroll in:

All coursework is fully operated by the academic institution, including curriculum, grading, deadlines, and academic policies.

How This Fits Within IDA’s Academic Model

The Pre-Collegiate pathway is offered as a standalone online academic experience and is not integrated into IDA’s blended on-site academic programs.

Key structure points:

IDA supports academic planning and pathway alignment, while academic delivery remains the responsibility of the college. For this reason, this option is best suited for independent learners who are comfortable balancing college-level coursework alongside a high-performance training schedule.

Who Is This Option Designed For?

This pathway may be a strong fit for:
In certain cases, this option can support students who have completed a gap year and need to begin post-secondary coursework, with their NCAA eligibility clock running, while progressing toward a future university transfer.

Important Academic Considerations

As with all post-secondary pathways, families should clearly understand:
Early coordination with NCAA compliance offices and prospective universities is strongly recommended.

Partner Institutions

As part of this pathway, students may complete coursework through select U.S. partner colleges chosen for academic rigor, flexibility, and athlete-friendly structures, including:

How Families Can Learn More

IDA families should first connect with the IDA admissions team to confirm overall program fit.

If the Pre-Collegiate pathway aligns with a student’s academic and athletic goals, families will then be introduced directly to IDA’s academic partner team for detailed guidance and next steps.

An Expanded Academic Ecosystem at IDA

By introducing this optional Pre-Collegiate pathway, IDA continues to expand its academic ecosystem — offering greater flexibility while maintaining credibility, structure, and long-term outcomes.

This option reinforces IDA’s commitment to supporting student-athletes not only in their football development, but also in building a clear, informed academic pathway for the future.

At International Development Academy (IDA), international competition is a key pillar of long-term player development. Our partnership with Global Sports Experiences (GSE) and Medeama Sporting Club continues to create meaningful opportunities for players to test themselves on the global stage — and the results speak for themselves.

That vision came to life at Surf Cup International Morocco 2024, where four Medeama players joined the FC United program. Competing against elite opposition from across Europe, Africa, and beyond, the FC United squad made history by becoming the first-ever U19 champions of Surf Cup International Morocco.

Among that title-winning group were Kelvin Nkrumah and David Boison Frimpong — two players whose journeys since the tournament highlight how structured international experiences accelerate growth both on and off the pitch.

Kelvin Nkrumah: From Development Platform to National Team Stage

Following a standout summer with FC United in Morocco, Kelvin Nkrumah has continued his upward development curve. Back in Ghana, he has become a regular presence in Medeama SC’s first team, contributing consistently in top-level domestic competition.

As Medeama SC push for the Ghanaian Premier League title, Kelvin has played an important role despite his young age. His progress has also been recognised internationally, earning multiple call-ups to the Ghana U20 national team.

In November 2025, at just 18 years old, Kelvin reached another major milestone with his first senior Ghana national team call-up — a reflection of both his ability and the growth gained through high-level international competition.

Kelvin’s development embodies IDA’s philosophy: creating environments that challenge players, expose them to new standards, and prepare them for the demands of the professional game.

David Boison Frimpong: Translating Development Into European Performance

Another standout from the same FC United group is David Boison Frimpong, whose pathway has now taken him into European football.

During the 2025 summer transfer window, David joined FC Copenhagen on loan, integrating into the Danish champions’ U19 setup. Since arriving, he has featured consistently in both the Danish U19 league and the UEFA Youth League, making an immediate impact.

With 7 goals in 15 appearances, David’s performances highlight his adaptability, tactical growth, and readiness for elite-level competition.

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