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.
The FC United 2014 Boys competed alongside more than 220 teams from 31 countries, gaining exposure to elite international opposition in a high-level tournament environment designed to challenge players both on and off the pitch.
What Is FC United?
Designed as a next-step opportunity beyond the training environment, FC United brings together top players from different countries to compete in elite international tournaments.
Rather than operating as a standalone team, FC United functions as a pathway outcome – giving players real-world exposure to international competition, mixed-nationality squads, and diverse football cultures.
Powered by the same coaching, recruitment, and operational structure behind IDA’s international programs, FC United allows players to test their development in high-performance environments where adaptability, resilience, and growth through challenge are essential.
A Key Moment in the IDA Pathway
While IDA focuses on daily training, individual development, and long-term progression, FC United provides the next step: testing those principles in unfamiliar environments, against diverse playing styles, and under tournament pressure.
Rather than operating as a standalone team, FC United is positioned as a pathway outcome – a bridge between the training ground and the global game.
A Truly International Squad
Bringing together players from different footballing cultures and backgrounds is a core element of the FC United model. Once in Spain, the group was required to quickly adapt – communicating effectively, understanding new teammates, and performing collectively in a competitive setting.
“It was fun to be on a team and hang out with players from around the world,” said Sully, FC United goalkeeper. “I really liked playing against Everton. It was cool to play a pro academy.”
This international mix reflects IDA’s belief that exposure to diversity accelerates development, helping players grow not only as footballers, but as individuals.
Competing on a Global Stage
Each match presented unique tactical and physical challenges, demanding flexibility and resilience from the players. Adapting to different game rhythms, playing styles, and competitive standards is a central component of international player development.
Following the group phase, FC United narrowly missed further progression after a closely contested Silver Quarter Final against Kyalami United (South Africa). While results are always part of competition, the experience provided valuable lessons in teamwork, composure, and performance under pressure.
From a parent perspective, the growth was clear.
“My son truly embraced a new experience in a foreign country with players from all over the world,” said Nik, father of Sully. “He grew immensely in confidence as a player and, most importantly, as a person during our time in Spain at SCI Salou.”
The Surf Cup International Environment
Now in its fifth edition, Surf Cup International Salou has established itself as one of Europe’s most respected youth tournaments. With teams representing six continents, the event offers a unique global setting where players are challenged beyond domestic competition.
For many families, the environment highlights the standards required at the international level.
“After the tournament, and the talent we saw on display, Muhammad decided that he has to do a lot more to keep up with the level of the rest of the continents,” shared Sheriff, Muhammad’s father, from South Africa.
More Than a Tournament Experience
For IDA, participation in events like Surf Cup International Salou goes beyond match results.
Playing in mixed-nationality squads, competing against elite international academies, and experiencing different football cultures are defining elements of the development pathway. These experiences foster independence, confidence, and cultural awareness – qualities that extend far beyond the pitch.
Programs like FC United, delivered in collaboration with Global Sports Experiences (GSE), reflect IDA’s commitment to preparing players for the realities of the global game.
As the pathway continues to evolve, FC United remains a key step for players ready to test themselves on the international stage.
We look forward to building on this experience in 2026.
The Moment the Game Gets Bigger
There is a moment that changes how a young athlete sees the world.
It’s not a trophy.
It’s not a new pair of boots.
It’s the first time they realize the game is bigger than their usual field.
For many players, that moment happens far from home.
Why Experiences Stay Longer Than Things
More and more families are choosing to invest in experiences rather than possessions. Not because experiences are easier or more comfortable – but because they shape perspective.
Things fade.
Experiences stay.
In sport, this is even more true. Training is essential, but development rarely happens only where everything feels familiar. Growth often begins when routines disappear and players are asked to adapt.
International experiences do exactly that.
What Changes When the Environment Changes
Playing abroad means new teammates, new opponents, different styles, different rhythms. It means not understanding everything right away.
Players have to listen more.
Observe more.
Adjust faster.
They learn how to communicate without words. How to stay composed when the game feels unfamiliar. How to compete without relying on habits built at home.
These moments force growth – not because they are comfortable, but because they aren’t.
The Lessons Players Don’t Forget
Ask players what they remember most from international trips, and it’s rarely a scoreline.
They remember exploring a new city.
They remember sharing a locker room with teammates from different countries.
They remember moments when they struggled – and realized they could handle it.
Those experiences shape confidence, independence, and resilience. They change how players see challenges long after the trip is over.
This is why experiences matter.
When Development Is Seen as a Journey
At International Development Academy (IDA), development has always been viewed as a long-term journey, not a checklist.
Training builds the foundation.
Experiences test it.
International exposure, when used thoughtfully, becomes a way for players to apply what they’ve learned in real-world environments — where adaptation, decision-making, and emotional control matter as much as technique.
That philosophy is what allows development to continue beyond the training ground.
International experiences are most powerful when they are part of a long-term development journey – where training provides the foundation and global exposure provides the test.
From Philosophy to Pathway
Within the IDA pathway, international experiences are introduced as a natural next step – a chance for players to take what they’ve learned and test it in new environments.
Within that approach, programs like FC United exist as a natural next step.
FC United brings players together from different countries to form mixed-nationality teams that compete in elite international tournaments. Players meet, connect, and learn on the move – adapting to new teammates, new opponents, and new ways of playing.
It’s not only about showcasing talent. It’s about experience. And about learning what the game feels like when it gets bigger.
A Living Example
That idea came to life last month when FC United competed at Surf Cup International Salou, one of Global Sports Experiences‘ and Europe’s leading youth tournaments.
Facing teams from across the globe, players encountered new playing styles, new expectations, and new challenges every day. The experience demanded adaptability – and rewarded growth.
It was a reminder of what international experiences can offer when they are part of a broader developmental journey.
Why This Matters
Not every athlete needs to travel internationally at every stage. But for those who are ready, these experiences can become turning points.
They don’t just develop better players.
They help develop more prepared people.
Because in the end, the most valuable thing a family or a program can offer a young athlete isn’t comfort.
It’s perspective.
Train Like a Pro This Winter: Inside IDA’s Global Soccer Training Programs
For soccer players who dream of playing at the next level, winter isn’t downtime; it’s an opportunity. While many teams take a break from training, ambitious athletes use the off-season to refine their skills, gain exposure, and prepare for the months ahead.
At the International Development Academy (IDA), players have access to professional-level training year-round through global soccer programs that take place across top destinations like Spain and the UK.
This winter, IDA’s Short-Term Programs and J-Term Experiences offer players the chance to train like pros, compete internationally, and see what life is like inside a full-time academy.
A Year-Round Soccer Development Pathway
IDA’s mission has always been to provide a comprehensive player development pathway that blends elite soccer training with educational and personal growth opportunities.
Through international academies in Spain, the UK, Italy, and Brazil, IDA gives players access to a consistent methodology, ensuring that every athlete, whether full-time or short-term, trains under the same professional structure.
That consistency is what defines IDA as a leader in global soccer training, offering environments where players can develop, compete, and grow 12 months a year.
Winter in Spain and the UK: Train Where the Game Never Stops
This winter, players can experience the beautiful game at its source through IDA’s Short-Term Programs in Spain.
At IDA Valencia athletes step into the heart of Spanish football culture. Training sessions focus on technique, speed of play, and tactical decision-making, with players competing in friendlies against local academies while immersed in Spain’s signature possession-based style.
Meanwhile, at IDA UK, players experience a high-performance environment in one of the world’s most competitive soccer cultures. Daily sessions emphasize intensity, physicality, and game intelligence preparing players to think faster, play stronger, and adapt to the fast pace of British football.
Both locations feature:
- Professional-level coaching from UEFA-licensed staff
- World-class facilities and structured daily training
- Competitive matches that test each player’s ability against international opposition
- Cultural and team-building experiences that enrich the overall journey
Together, Spain and the UK create the ideal setting for winter development allowing players to stay sharp, grow their confidence, and gain exposure to two of the most influential football styles in the world.
The J-Term Experience: A Glimpse Into the Pro Environment
For student-athletes looking to maximize their winter break, the IDA J-Term Program offers a focused, immersive training experience.
This short-term program gives players a chance to step into a professional-style routine—complete with daily training, tactical sessions, and competition opportunities—all within IDA’s global framework.
The J-Term serves as a bridge between semesters, allowing players to experience international soccer firsthand without disrupting their academic schedules. It’s the perfect test drive for those considering full-time academy enrollment in the future.
Train This Winter. Grow All Year.
Whether you’re fine-tuning your technique, exploring a global training experience, or preparing for future recruitment opportunities, IDA’s winter programs provide the platform to keep improving year-round.
Don’t let the off-season slow you down and train like a pro with IDA this winter.
Learn more and apply for IDA’s Short-Term Programs:
Short-Term Programs and Events
This summer, San Diego Premier Training (SDPT) brought a talented group of 17 players to Spain for an unforgettable international soccer experience at the IDA Valencia Prep Camp.
From the first communication with Edgar, Academy Founder & Head Coach, the focus was clear: help young players step outside their comfort zones, challenge themselves in a professional football environment, and experience the rhythm of daily life in one of Europe’s most vibrant soccer cultures.
For the group of players that travelled from San Diego, the camp offered far more than just elite-level training. Over the course of their week in Valencia, they lived like professional academy players — complete with daily sessions led by UEFA-licensed coaches, strength and conditioning work, nutrition workshops, competitive tournament play and cultural excursions in Valencia and Barcelona.
Staying at the Mas Camarena residence, the players were immersed in a world built entirely around football and development. Training sessions took place at IDA’s state-of-the-art facilities, where the group was guided through tactical concepts, positional play, and game intelligence to elevate their technical and mental performance.
Competing, Connecting, and Growing Together
The camp wasn’t just about drills and competition — it was about connection. Players from around the world joined the same program, creating a dynamic environment where learning came not only from coaches, but from each other.
The SDPT players quickly bonded with peers from Europe, the Caribbean, and North America — sharing the pitch, exchanging ideas, and forging friendships that crossed borders.
Off the field, they explored the heart of Valencia: the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, the Mestalla Stadium, and of course, the historic city center – all key aspects that make the city one of Spain’s most welcoming destinations for young athletes.
On the field, San Diego Premier Training’s players were challenged to adapt to European playing styles — emphasizing faster ball circulation, positional awareness, and game tempo. Many players commented on how much they improved in decision-making and speed of play. Coach Edgar from SDPT also noticed stronger mental resilience — a reflection of the camp’s holistic focus on both performance and personal growth.
One of the trip’s standout moments came during the group’s day trip to Barcelona, where they took part in a special training session led by professional academy coaches at RCD Espanyol. The players experienced first-hand the technical precision, and discipline demanded at a top Spanish academy, giving them a real taste of what it takes to train at the professional level.
By the end of the program, the group had gained more than new skills; they had gained perspective — on what it takes to compete at the next level and the kind of commitment needed to reach it.
Why Experiences Like This Matter
IDA’s Group Trips Program is built around one idea: development doesn’t just happen on familiar fields. It happens when players travel, adapt, and learn in environments that stretch them. For San Diego Premier Training, this trip to IDA Valencia was exactly that — a developmental milestone, a cultural immersion, and a shared adventure that strengthened bonds across the academy.
Bring Your Group Next Summer
IDA’s group experiences, like the one San Diego Premier Training enjoyed, are available for clubs, schools, and academies seeking the same opportunity to train, live, and play in elite environments abroad. Here’s what is on offer in 2025/26:
- Destinations: Spain, United Kingdom, USA, Brazil
- Ideal for: Players aged 10–21
- Programs include: Training, accommodation, meals, excursions, and full support from IDA staff
Learn more about our Group Trips & Camps at internationalda.com/camps-group-trips. Take your players on a journey that goes beyond football and discover what’s possible when they experience the global game first-hand.
For ambitious players, the dream of playing college or professional soccer isn’t limited by borders anymore. Around the world, international soccer academies are redefining player development, offering the perfect mix of world-class training, academic excellence, and global opportunity.
At the International Development Academy (IDA), that dream becomes reality. With year-round programs across Spain, the UK, Brazil, and Italy, IDA gives players the chance to train, study, and compete at the highest levels while gaining exposure to college scouts and professional clubs.
What Makes an International Soccer Academy Different?
Unlike traditional club or high-school programs, an international soccer academy provides a fully immersive environment built around development, on and off the pitch.
Players train daily with UEFA-licensed coaches, compete against elite academies, and follow personalized performance plans that mirror professional standards. Meanwhile, education partners ensure players continue their studies, making it possible to pursue both athletic and academic goals abroad.
At IDA, this approach means every athlete receives:
- Consistent, professional-level coaching that follows one clear philosophy.
- Full-time training environments designed for technical, tactical, physical, and mental growth.
- Academic support that fits each player’s educational path.
It’s this balance of soccer and schooling that transforms IDA from a training center into a true global soccer academy.
How Global Training Shapes Better Players
Each of IDA’s international locations brings its own unique advantage and that’s what sets global academies apart.
- Spain – At IDA Valencia, players immerse themselves in Spain’s legendary possession-based style of football. Training focuses on technical precision, quick decision-making, and intelligent movement. Through matches against professional academies and access to top-tier facilities, players learn to read the game at speed — the foundation of modern European football.
- United Kingdom – At IDA UK, players experience the intensity, physicality, and tactical awareness that define British soccer. The environment emphasizes resilience, teamwork, and professionalism which are key traits for those aspiring to play at college or professional levels. With fixtures against elite English academies and exposure to a traditional football culture, every training session sharpens both the mind and body for next-level competition.
- Italy – At IDA Rome, the focus is on structure, defensive discipline, and positional understanding which are hallmarks of Italian football. Players benefit from a technical yet tactical approach designed to improve game IQ and situational awareness. Off the pitch, they’re surrounded by the rich history and passion that make Italy one of the most respected football nations in the world.
- Brazil – In partnership with Cruzeiro, IDA Brazil offers players an unmatched chance to experience the birthplace of flair. Training in Brazil combines creativity, improvisation, and rhythm, encouraging athletes to express themselves with confidence and joy. The environment blends world-class coaching with an authentic South American energy, giving players a deeper appreciation for the artistry of the game.
This global exposure helps players understand multiple styles of play, adapt to different opponents, and elevate their game to international standards. It’s not just about getting better, it’s about becoming smarter, more complete athletes.
Building the Pro Pathway
For players who dream big, the pro pathway starts with preparation and exposure. International academies like IDA connect athletes to both.
Through showcase matches, scouting events, and partnerships with professional clubs, IDA players regularly compete in front of college recruiters and academy coaches from around the world. Some graduates move on to NCAA or NAIA programs in the U.S., while others earn professional trials across Europe and beyond.
Every IDA campus follows one unified mission: to give players the resources, environment, and visibility to reach the next level.
More Than Soccer: A Global Life Experience
While technical development is the foundation, life at an international soccer academy offers something even bigger—personal growth.
Living abroad teaches independence, adaptability, and cultural awareness. Players build friendships with teammates from multiple countries, learn new languages, and gain the confidence to thrive in unfamiliar environments.
It’s an education that extends far beyond the classroom or the field. When players return home, or take the next step in their careers, they bring with them a broader perspective that shapes who they are as people and as athletes.
Your Global Journey Starts with IDA
The world of soccer is bigger, and more connected than ever before. Training with an international soccer academy opens doors to global opportunities, from college scholarships to professional contracts and lifelong friendships.
At IDA, players don’t just train for the next match, they prepare for their future.
Explore IDA’s global academies here.
At just 17 years old, Pablo Loinaz continues to make his mark in Spanish football. A standout graduate of the International Development Academy (IDA) in Valencia, Pablo’s journey is a story of discipline, growth, and determination.
After impressing during his time at IDA, Pablo earned the opportunity to train and compete within the youth setup of Villarreal CF, one of Spain’s top La Liga academies renowned for developing elite talent. His performances and consistency on the pitch have led to a renewal with Villarreal CF’s U19 team, where he continues to grow under the club’s professional structure.
A technically sharp midfielder known for his composure, game intelligence, and leadership qualities, Pablo has become a model example of what’s possible for players following IDA’s European development pathway.
“Playing at Villarreal CF is a dream come true,” Pablo shared. “IDA gave me the foundation to adapt quickly to the intensity and standards of Spanish football.”
As he continues to progress through the academy ranks, Pablo represents both his Puerto Rican roots and the IDA philosophy of turning potential into performance. His journey from IDA Valencia to Villarreal CF is an inspiring reflection of dedication, opportunity, and passion for the game.