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.

When Kaden Foreman left Columbus, Ohio, for a gap year at IDA UK in August 2021, he had no idea just how transformative the experience would be. At just 17, he was stepping onto the global stage—far from home, family, and the familiar rhythms of American soccer. But for Kaden, the challenge was exactly what he needed.

Taking the Leap
 The COVID-19 pandemic had disrupted traditional recruiting, leaving young players like Kaden at a crossroads. “Being young for my grade, a gap year seemed like the perfect way to develop as a player and make myself more appealing to college coaches,” Kaden recalls. IDA UK offered not just elite training, but an opportunity to grow as a person—living and learning alongside players from across the globe.

Growing Through Challenge
 At IDA UK, Kaden faced opponents up to five years older in under-23 league matches, and the intensity of daily training pushed him to new limits. “Playing in high-stakes games at 17 taught me how to handle pressure,” he says. “It prepared me for the physicality and mental demands of college soccer, and gave me confidence going into my first year at Rollins College.”

Memories That Last a Lifetime
 Off the field, Kaden’s gap year was equally formative. From late-night study sessions to group excursions with his international teammates, every day offered new lessons. “Moving across the world at 17 taught me to embrace discomfort and thrive in it. I learned adaptability, independence, and how to connect with people from all walks of life,” Kaden reflects. “Those lessons still guide me, on and off the field.”

A College Career Built on Preparation
 Kaden’s time at IDA UK directly influenced his recruitment to Rollins College. With guidance from Peter, IDA’s college recruitment lead, Kaden navigated the scholarship process and landed a trial with Rollins. Just 60 minutes of training later, the Tars had made their offer.

Since then, Kaden has become a cornerstone of the Rollins program. As a senior captain and defender, his stats tell part of the story, but his leadership and consistency define him:

Through these years, Kaden’s experience at IDA UK has proven invaluable. The high-intensity training, exposure to international competition, and structured lifestyle prepared him to balance academics, athletics, and leadership from day one.

Advice to Future IDA Players
 Looking back, Kaden urges young players to take the leap. “Even a short-term experience at IDA UK can change your life. You’ll gain memories, friendships, and skills that last a lifetime, and you’ll be set up to reach your goals on the field if you work hard every single day.”

Looking Ahead
 As he prepares for life beyond college, Kaden’s love for soccer remains steadfast. Injuries and academic pursuits may have shifted his path, but his passion for the game—and the global connections he’s built—will continue to shape his life.

Kaden Foreman’s journey is a testament to the life-changing impact of an IDA UK gap year: pushing beyond comfort, embracing challenges, and emerging ready to lead both on and off the pitch.

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.

Harwan Al-Zubaidi’s journey from the streets of Yemen to the professional football arenas of Iraq is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the transformative role of the International Development Academy. His story exemplifies how targeted training and exposure can pave the way for young talents to shine on the global stage.

Early Passion and Determination

Born on October 15, 1999, in Sana’a, Yemen, Harwan’s passion for football was evident from a young age. He spent countless hours honing his skills, dreaming of one day playing professionally. His commitment and natural talent soon caught the attention of scouts, leading him to opportunities beyond his homeland.

Transformative Experience at IDA

Seeking to elevate his game, Harwan joined the International Development Academy in the UK and Spain. At IDA, he immersed himself in a rigorous training regimen that emphasized technical proficiency, tactical intelligence, and physical conditioning. The academy’s holistic approach ensured that he developed not only as a player but also as an individual.

Reflecting on his time at IDA, Harwan stated, “The experience at IDA was pivotal. The exposure to high-level coaching and competitive matches prepared me for the challenges of professional football.”

Professional Breakthrough

Leveraging the connections and experience gained at IDA, Harwan secured a position with Al-Hala SC in Bahrain, marking the beginning of his professional career. His tenure at the club showcased his defensive prowess and adaptability, further validating the effectiveness of IDA’s development programs.

International Recognition and Recent Endeavors

Harwan’s exceptional performances did not go unnoticed. He earned multiple caps with the Yemen national team, contributing significantly to their defensive lineup.

In the January 2025 transfer window, Harwan joined Al-Zawraa SC, a prominent club in the Iraqi Premier League. This move signifies a new chapter in his career, offering him a platform to further demonstrate his capabilities.

A Testament to IDA’s Mission

Harwan’s journey underscores the mission of the International Development Academy: to nurture and develop players capable of competing at the highest levels. His success serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities and striving for excellence.

His story is a compelling narrative of talent, perseverance, and the impact of structured development programs. As he continues to make strides in his professional career, he remains a beacon of inspiration for young athletes worldwide.