International Development Academy (IDA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Strive Soccer Academy, a leading player development program in Canada. This collaboration aligns perfectly with IDA’s mission to provide ambitious athletes around the world with access to high-performance training, international experiences, and pathways to the next level of competition. Through this agreement, Strive Soccer athletes will now be able to benefit from IDA’s global platform, including programs, tournaments, and experiences designed to challenge and elevate their game.
“At Strive Soccer Academy, our mission is to develop well-rounded athletes through a European training methodology that emphasizes technical skill, tactical intelligence, physical preparation, psychological resilience, and strong character,” mentioned a Strive Soccer Academy director. “This partnership with International Development Academy gives our players unparalleled access to global opportunities and experiences—preparing them to succeed at the next level, both on and off the field.”
“By joining forces with Strive Soccer, IDA reaffirms its commitment to supporting the growth of talented players worldwide. Together, we will provide Strive athletes with the opportunity to showcase their abilities on international stages, engage in elite development programs, and pursue their dreams with a clear pathway to success both on and off the pitch.” said Fran Albiñana, Global Partnership Manager at the International Development Academy.

At IDA, we believe in more than developing players—we believe in supporting people. Today, we want to take a moment to recognize and honor the courage of our UK General Manager, Ross Weatherstone, who recently shared his personal battle with skin cancer.

A Journey No One Expects

In April 2024, during what began as a routine check-up for a patch of flaky skin, Ross was encouraged to undergo a full body check. That decision, as he has bravely shared, may have saved his life. Doctors discovered an aggressive form of melanoma skin cancer on his right calf. Within weeks, Ross underwent surgery to remove the affected area.

“The tone of the doctor’s voice changed when she saw the mole,” Ross recalled. “It’s something that will stay with me forever. If I hadn’t been checked, my situation could have been life-threatening.”

Further testing also revealed a high-risk freckle near his blind spot during an eye exam—something he continues to be monitored for regularly.

Strength in Family and Football

For Ross, recovery wasn’t just about surgery and medical care. It was about his family—his wife Angela and their daughter Amelie, born only a year before his diagnosis.

“One of the toughest challenges for me was seeing my daughter’s disappointment when I couldn’t play or look after her,” Ross shared. “That was mentally challenging.”

Football, too, played a powerful role in his journey. While stepping away from managerial duties at Binfield FC during his recovery, Ross was overwhelmed by the support of his assistant coaches, players, and the wider football community. Even moments like watching his brother, Simon Weatherstone—first-team coach at Newcastle United—lift the Carabao Cup at Wembley became part of his healing process.

“I felt blessed to be there,” Ross said. “It was just the medicine I needed.”

A Mission of Awareness

Out of this life-changing experience has come a mission that Ross now carries with him every day: raising awareness.

He speaks openly about the dangers of prolonged sun exposure and the importance of protecting both skin and eyes—especially in football, where coaches, players, and referees spend countless hours facing the elements.

“No one wears sunglasses as a coach, yet we’re told to face the sun when we deliver sessions,” Ross explained. “Protecting your eyes and your skin shouldn’t be frowned upon. It should be encouraged.”

Ross is passionate about normalizing these conversations in football environments—from grassroots training pitches to professional academies. For him, it’s not only about personal health, but also about creating a culture where prevention and awareness are prioritized, so others don’t face the same challenges he has.

“Be brave—go and get your moles checked,” Ross urges. “The peace of mind is huge. I wouldn’t wish what I’ve been through on anyone.”

Why We’re Proud at IDA

Ross’s resilience, leadership, and willingness to share his story embody what we strive to teach every player who comes through our academies: that challenges—on or off the field—can be faced with courage, honesty, and strength.

At IDA UK and across all our academies worldwide, we are proud to have Ross leading by example. His story is more than one of survival—it’s one of inspiration. But equally important, it’s now a platform to educate and build awareness—helping coaches, players, and families recognize the importance of early detection, regular checks, and simple protective habits that can save lives.

We are grateful Ross is feeling better, and we stand behind him as he continues to shine a light on this important cause—using his voice not only to lead IDA, but also to protect and inspire the global football community.

East Tennessee State University (ETSU) has added a dynamic new talent to its men’s soccer roster: right-back Khalifah Atolagbe, a technically gifted and hardworking defender who joins the Buccaneers following a season at IDA Valencia.

A Season with Purpose: IDA Valencia & Local Success

Khalifah chose IDA Valencia with a clear goal in mind: to further develop as a player and secure a pathway into an NCAA Division I program. During his season in Spain, he represented IDA U19 and local club C.F.A. Quart de Les Valls, where he was one of the main players that helped the team achieve promotion.

At IDA, Khalifah sharpened his technical abilities, improved his tactical awareness, and continued to grow as a professional both on and off the field. His relentless work ethic, quality in possession, and ability to deliver accurate crosses made him a standout performer—qualities that ultimately opened the door for his recruitment by a Division I college program.

ETSU Men’s Soccer: A Winning and Competitive Environment

Khalifah now steps into a thriving Division I environment as part of the East Tennessee State Buccaneers, competing in the Southern Conference (SoCon). ETSU’s men’s soccer program plays its home matches at Summers-Taylor Stadium, a purpose-built soccer facility with a strong fan atmosphere.

The Buccaneers have established themselves as one of the premier programs in the SoCon, most recently sharing the Southern Conference regular-season title, securing top seeds in the SoCon tournament, and earning the 2024–25 SoCon Commissioner’s Cup as the top men’s athletics program in the league.

Facing Top Competition

During his NCAA career, Khalifah will face some of the strongest programs in college soccer, including Furman University, Mercer University, UNC Greensboro, and Wofford College within the Southern Conference. Additionally, ETSU’s non-conference schedule regularly features nationally recognized programs such as University of Kentucky, Louisville, and Clemson, giving Khalifah the platform to test himself against some of the top collegiate teams in the United States.

Jayel Goncalves, a 2008-born fullback from Brockton, Massachusetts, is preparing to take the next step in his development with the International Development Academy, beginning with a month-long stay at IDA’s Valencia campus.

Jayel’s journey is a strong example of the opportunities made possible through the Global Soccer Alliance network. A standout player for MLS NEXT side IFA New England, Jayel’s pathway to IDA began when his team was recruited by Global Sports Experiences—a GSA property—to compete in the 2024 edition of SuperCupNI. The event, which brings top North American teams to Northern Ireland to face elite European academies, has become a key platform for international exposure and talent identification.

Jayel made the most of that opportunity. Representing IFA New England, he delivered a series of composed and tenacious performances, including a 2-1 win over Manchester United. His play turned heads across the tournament, and he was scouted directly by IDA staff during the event. IFA eventually bowed out in the semifinals after a penalty shootout against eventual champions Brighton, but Jayel’s impact was undeniable.

In 2025, he continued to build on that momentum, playing a central role in IFA New England’s U17 squad. The team captured both the MLS NEXT Flex Group and Division titles, earning a spot among the six Super-Seeded teams in the U17 Playoffs—another strong indicator of Jayel’s development and consistency.

On the international stage, Jayel added another milestone to his growing resume by representing the U17 Cape Verde National Team. Competing in an international tournament in East Timor, he helped Cape Verde earn wins over Portugal and Angola on their way to the championship.

Now, with his commitment to IDA finalized, Jayel is set to immerse himself in the IDA environment—starting with a month at IDA Valencia, where he’ll train, compete, and experience life as part of an elite international academy. His progression—from GSE’s team recruitment to being scouted at a GSA event and now joining IDA—demonstrates the strength and alignment of the GSA ecosystem.

Jayel’s story highlights what’s possible when a player fully engages with the development pathway. From local club success to international competition, and now a move abroad, his journey offers a blueprint for others looking to grow within the game—powered by the connections and opportunities within the Global Soccer Alliance.

Another proud milestone for IDA Florida @ DME Academy—Yan Diomande, an 18-year-old alum of our program, has signed with RB Leipzig, one of Germany’s top-tier clubs competing in the Bundesliga.

After launching his development in Daytona Beach through the IDA Florida pathway, Diomande progressed to professional football in Spain, where he made headlines with CD Leganés. His breakthrough season included appearances against top La Liga sides and quickly put him on the radar of elite European clubs.

His recent move to RB Leipzig comes after a reported €20 million transfer, highlighting the continued rise of one of football’s most exciting young wingers.

From U.S. Success to European Stardom

Diomande first stood out in the United States Premier League, where he showcased his attacking instincts, quickness, and goal-scoring ability. His journey from domestic standout to La Liga competitor and now Bundesliga professional is a testament to the opportunities available through IDA’s international platform.

Built at IDA Florida

IDA Florida @ DME Academy provided the environment, coaching, and structure for Yan to grow as both a player and a person. His success reflects the foundation laid during his time in our residential academy—proving once again that IDA is a launchpad for players with big ambitions.

With players from 30 different countries — including the United States, Canada, Brazil, Spain, Mexico, Romania, Haiti, Australia, Colombia, Poland, and more — IDA has built one of the most diverse and internationally represented youth football environments in the world. This global reach not only reflects our commitment to connecting players from all backgrounds but also highlights our ability to manage the complexities of international residency and study arrangements with proven success.

At the International Development Academy, we are committed to providing a comprehensive, worry-free experience for young athletes and their families. One of the biggest challenges international football academies face today is navigating the increasingly strict visa requirements for players under 18 — particularly in Spain and other European countries.

We are proud to confirm that, thanks to our experience, strong local partnerships, and thorough planning, our Valencia academy has established a reliable and fully compliant pathway that allows all under-18 players to obtain their visas without issue. This ensures our athletes can focus fully on their development — both on and off the field — without administrative obstacles.

At IDA Valencia, our long-standing partnership with Mas Camarena/TPH — one of Spain’s top educational institutions — continues to operate smoothly. This collaboration provides a holistic environment that combines elite football training with top-tier academics and opportunities for personal growth.

While many academies struggle to adapt to changing regulations, IDA Valencia remains fully operational and ready to welcome young talent from around the world. Families can move forward with confidence, knowing that their children’s residence and study arrangements are fully supported and secure.

At IDA, we believe a player’s journey should be driven by their potential and ambition — not limited by bureaucracy. We remain committed to providing a safe, professional, and seamless transition for every athlete who joins our academy.

For more information about our programs, click here to visit our academies page. We are always happy to provide personalized guidance and support to interested families.

There are hundreds of places where players can train hard. But very few offer the full picture: elite coaching, everyday support, international exposure — all in one place, under one philosophy. That’s what makes IDA Valencia different.

It’s not just that we have over 40 staff on the ground supporting 140 student-athletes. It’s what that allows us to do: Create structure. Build trust. And unlock long-term growth for every player who steps through our doors.

This is where development becomes personal — and possible.

A Full-Time Team That’s Fully Bought In

At IDA Valencia, athletes benefit from more than just training sessions. They’re surrounded by a full-time staff that lives the day-to-day academy lifestyle alongside them. Coaches, performance specialists, rehab experts, mentors — all working together to build confident players and even better people.

And they don’t just show up for training. They’re here 24/7. On the field, in the gym, at meals, in the dorms — our staff is present, engaged, and invested in the full development process. That kind of support isn’t common in youth football. But here, it’s standard.

A Coaching Staff That Goes Beyond the Résumé

The coaches at IDA Valencia bring something rare: a mix of high-level experience and a hands-on, player-first approach. These are professionals who have coached in Spain’s top divisions, competed at the professional level, and led youth development at elite academies — yet remain deeply committed to the daily work of growing players.

The group below offers just a glimpse of the talent, experience, and leadership that define the full IDA Valencia coaching team — a staff of over 40 professionals working side by side to help players reach their next level.

Together, this group forms the backbone of a high-performance environment built to stretch, support, and sharpen every player who walks through the doors of IDA Valencia — and they’re only part of the team making that possible.

What It Feels Like to Train at IDA Valencia

It feels professional. Structured. Motivating. And above all, intentional.

There’s no guesswork here. Every training block, every fitness session, every video breakdown is part of a clear plan to help each player get better — technically, tactically, physically, and mentally.

But beyond football, it’s the environment that makes the biggest impact. For many players, Valencia is their first time living away from home, immersed in a new culture. Our staff is here to guide that transition — not just as coaches, but as mentors who understand how life off the field affects performance on it.

Why This Matters

Because the gap between where a player is and where they want to be is rarely about talent. More often, it’s about consistency, confidence, and having the right people in your corner. At IDA Valencia, we’ve built a system designed to close that gap — through daily structure, individual attention, and coaching that goes beyond the pitch. This isn’t just a place to get better. It’s where players become ready.

At the International Development Academy, small ratios mean big results — more feedback, deeper connections, faster growth. Our goal isn’t just to create better soccer players — it’s to shape confident, prepared young adults ready for the next step in their journey, whether it’s college or the pros.

Our coaching model is what sets us apart. With world-class staff and an intentionally low player-to-coach ratio across all six locations — Valencia, UK, Salou, Rome, Florida, and Brazil — players receive the attention, structure, and mentorship they need to grow.

Take IDA Valencia, for example. With 140 student-athletes supported by 40 coaches, that’s a 7:2 player-to-coach ratio — and that level of access is consistent across all of our academies. It’s a number that reflects our commitment to personal development through elite-level structure.

More Coaches = More Feedback
When there are more coaches on the field, players don’t get lost in the crowd. They get seen. They get challenged. They get coached. With smaller training groups and more eyes on every session, our players benefit from constant technical corrections, tactical adjustments, and real-time guidance. Every touch, every run, every moment is an opportunity to improve.

Elite Credentials, Real-World Experience
IDA coaches aren’t just qualified — they’ve played and coached at the highest levels. With UEFA and USSF licenses, professional playing backgrounds, and international experience, they know what it takes to succeed at the next level — and how to prepare our players to get there. Many of our coaches have lived the same journey our players are on: from academy life to college, or from youth football to the professional game. That perspective matters.

24/7 Support On and Off the Field
The IDA coaching staff doesn’t clock in and out. They’re part of the daily life of our academies — from training sessions and gym work to study halls and team meals. That presence builds trust. It creates mentorship. And it ensures that players are supported holistically — not just as athletes, but as young adults adjusting to life abroad, pursuing their goals far from home.

Unified Vision, Local Execution
While each IDA location has its own flavor and personality, our coaching staff operates under a unified development philosophy. That means wherever you go — whether it’s Spain, Italy, the UK, the U.S., or Brazil — you’re stepping into a professional, player-focused system designed to help you grow in technical ability, tactical understanding, physical performance, and personal development.

To start your journey with IDA and speak to an advisor, click HERE.

At the International Development Academy (IDA) Valencia, we take immense pride in developing global players both on and off the pitch. That commitment is reflected in our athletes’ recent international success. This season, several of our players have earned national team call-ups, showcasing their growth and the strength of the IDA program.

🇷🇴 Anton Cristian Terhes – Romania U15 National Team

Anton has been selected to participate in Romania’s U15 training camp, a testament to his tactical intelligence and versatility. Capable of playing both in midfield and as a center back, Anton has featured for UD Vall de Uxó and CF Inter San José, competing in two of Spain’s top youth categories. His understanding of the game and adaptability make him a key asset on any team.

🇵🇷 Eddiel Márquez – Puerto Rico U17 & Senior National Team

Eddiel represented Puerto Rico in the U17 World Cup Qualifiers in Honduras, where he made a significant impact with goals and standout performances. His efforts earned him a call-up to the senior national team, where he played against the Dominican Republic. A dynamic forward who can play as a striker or on the wing, Eddiel is known for his relentless work ethic and rapid development this season.

🇵🇷 Rubén Rosado – Puerto Rico U17 National Team

Rubén joined teammate Eddiel in the U17 World Cup Qualifiers. As a goalkeeper, he brings excellent reflexes, foot skills, and a reputation for saving penalties. His consistency and poise under pressure continue to earn him opportunities at the highest level.

🇰🇾 Emre Cuevas-Ebanks – Cayman Islands U17 National Team

Emre was called up to represent the Cayman Islands in the CONCACAF U17 Tournament. A quick and powerful attacker, he thrives as both a striker and winger, using his pace and instinct to attack spaces and find the back of the net.

🇪🇪 Rasmus Koppel – Estonia U16 National Team

Rasmus’s steady growth at IDA Valencia has earned him a spot in the Estonia U16 national team camp. Playing primarily as a center back, his improved defensive skills and leadership on the pitch made him a clear candidate to represent his country.

🇻🇬 Chad Fearon – British Virgin Islands U17 National Team

Chad has recently featured in friendly matches for the British Virgin Islands U17 team. A strong, box-to-box midfielder, Chad’s physicality and energy make him a standout in the heart of the pitch.

Global Talent, Local Impact

These international call-ups are not just individual milestones—they’re a reflection of the collective standard being set at IDA Valencia. As we continue to foster talent from around the world, we’re proud to see our players take their next steps on the international stage.

Speak to an IDA Advisor to talk about your next steps with IDA HERE.

At the International Development Academy, we take pride in preparing student-athletes to succeed at the highest level—on and off the field. Yan Diomande is one of the latest examples of that mission in motion. After developing his game with IDA Florida @ DME Academy, the 20-year-old Ivorian forward is now making headlines in La Liga with C.D. Leganés.

A Relentless Rise

Yan’s path to Spain began with standout performances at DME Academy in Daytona Beach, where he quickly became known for his speed, strength, and clinical finishing. In 2023, he exploded onto the national radar—earning recognition from Top Drawer Soccer as one of the top players in the country and claiming the Golden Boot during the UPSL Playoffs after scoring in six straight rounds.

That form carried over to Europe. Since signing with Leganés, Yan has made seven appearances, starting in six of those matches. On Matchday 35, he netted his first La Liga goal—a composed right-footed finish in a crucial 3–2 win over Espanyol. His impact was immediate, earning him a spot in the LaLiga EA Sports Team of the Week. With Leganés locked in a tight relegation battle, Diomande’s timing and influence have proven vital.

Prepared for the Moment

Yan’s success is no accident. It’s the result of years of focused development, consistent competition, and a mindset shaped by the high-performance environment at IDA. From daily training to academic balance and international exposure, IDA helped prepare him for the challenges of professional soccer.

The IDA Mission

At IDA, our goal is to build more than athletes—we build people ready to take on the world. Whether a player’s journey leads to college soccer, professional contracts, or national team opportunities, we provide the structure, support, and resources to get them there.

We’re proud of Yan’s journey and excited to see what’s next. His story is a reminder that when talent meets opportunity, anything is possible.

To apply for the 2025-2026 season or speak to an IDA Advisor, click HERE.