This summer, GSE raised the bar for sports travel experiences with an awe-inspiring showcase that left its mark on over 700 participants from different clubs like Surf Select, USSSA, NJ Knights, IDA Bermuda, FC America, and Northeast Rush. Spanning five countries—USA, Brazil, Spain, Northern Ireland, and England, GSE Summer 2023 unfolded as a series of remarkable events that united players, coaches, and parents in an unforgettable celebration of sports, camaraderie, and adventure.

While sports were at the forefront, the cultural immersion aspect of GSE Summer 2023 added a vibrant layer to the experience. Participants had the privilege of exploring the cultural tapestries of each host country, sampling local cuisine, experiencing traditional arts, and soaking in the rich histories. GSE Summer 2023 now stands as a chapter etched in the collective memory of participants—a chapter that celebrates excellence, unity, and friendship. With its profound impact on athletes, coaches, and parents alike, GSE Summer 2023 reaffirmed its dedication to crafting sports travel experiences that inspire, connect, and endure for a lifetime.

GSE is excited to announce our 2024 tournament dates:

Surf Cup International Rome City (Rome, Italy): March 27-30, 2024

Super Cup NI (Northern Ireland): July 21-26, 2024 

Surf Cup International Morocco (Tanger, Morocco): August 1-4, 2024

BH Cup (Belo Horizonte, Brazil): August 4-10, 2024

Royal Pre-Season Cup (London, England): August 16-18, 2024

Surf Cup International Salou (Salou, Spain): November 28 – December 1, 2024

Ready to book your next best experience? Get in touch with our eager team to plan your future destination today!

 

Introduction

On September 15th, 2004, Luca Koleosho was born in the United States to parents of Nigerian, Italian and Canadian heritage. Flash-forward eighteen years later, and Koleosho clocked a 61-minute shift on the field for Burnley in the Premier League season-opener against Manchester City. Luca’s journey from his American roots to the fields of Europe has not only shaped his soccer career but also highlighted the sacrifices and rewards of leaving home at a young age to pursue your dreams.

A Brave Departure

At the age of 13, most children in the United States are still navigating the challenges of middle school and exploring their hobbies. However, Luca Koleosho made a choice that set him apart from his peers. With dreams of playing soccer at the highest level, he left behind his friends, family, and familiar surroundings in the United States to embark on an adventure across the Atlantic.

The Spanish Odyssey

Luca’s journey led him to the shores of Spain, a nation deeply passionate about soccer and arguably one of the best soccer cultures in the world. He joined CF Reus, a club that participates in renowned tournaments such as the Surf Cup International in Salou, Spain. The exposure to top-level competition and the opportunity to train and play alongside young talents from around the world provided Luca with an invaluable experience that significantly shaped his development as a player.

Challenges of Leaving Home

Leaving home at such a young age is undoubtedly a daunting task. The comforts of familiarity, family, and the sense of belonging are difficult to leave behind. Luca’s journey highlights the emotional and psychological challenges that come with this sacrifice. Adapting to a new culture, language, and environment can be overwhelming, but Luca’s determination and passion to pursue a professional soccer career helped him persevere through the tough times.

The Importance of European Exposure

Luca’s story underlines the significance of exposure to top-level soccer in Europe for young talents. The European soccer scene is known for its rigorous training methods, intense competition, and high standards of development. Players who make the leap to European academies like International Development Academy often find themselves surrounded by experienced coaches, world-class facilities, and opportunities to learn from the best. This exposure not only hones their skills but also provides a unique platform to showcase their abilities to scouts and clubs from across the globe.

Paving the Path for Future Talents

Luca Koleosho’s journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring young soccer players worldwide. His story demonstrates that while the path may be challenging, the rewards of dedication, hard work, and a willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone can be truly extraordinary. As young talents witness the success stories of players like Luca, they are encouraged to dream big and pursue their aspirations relentlessly, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter.

Conclusion

Luca Koleosho’s journey from the United States to Europe’s soccer stage is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. Leaving home at a young age and navigating the challenges of adapting to a new environment showcases Luca’s resilience and commitment to his passion. As he steps onto the field, wearing the Burnley jersey against Manchester City, his journey reminds us all that the pursuit of excellence often demands sacrifices, leaps of faith and a quality Development Academy. Luca’s story encourages young talents to embrace the unknown, work tirelessly, and grasp every opportunity to elevate their game to new heights.

If you would like to pursue your dream of playing at the highest level, International Development Academy is currently enrolling for the 2023/24 and 2024/25 academic seasons. Please fill out the form below and one of our Academic Advisors will reach out to you as soon as possible.

Image Credit: Burnley FC

As the birthplace of modern football, England stands tall as a nation revered for its deep-rooted passion and exceptional talent in the beautiful game. For aspiring soccer players aiming to hone their skills and pursue a career in the sport, football academies in England present an unparalleled opportunity for growth and development. Among the crème de la crème of such institutions, the International Development Academy (IDA) in Reading, United Kingdom, takes the lead. International Development Academy offers a comprehensive training program that prepares players for the collegiate level and beyond.

1. International Development Academy (IDA)

Leading the pack, the International Development Academy has carved a niche for itself as one of the premier football academies in England. Situated in the heart of Reading, IDA provides an intensive one-year training program designed to fine-tune the skills of young soccer talents. Boasting a state-of-the-art facility and a team of highly qualified coaches, IDA offers personalized training sessions, tactical workshops, and competitive match experiences that ensure players are well-equipped to thrive at the collegiate level.

2. Manchester United Academy

A name that resonates across the globe, the Manchester United Academy has been instrumental in nurturing some of the greatest football talents in history. Situated at the legendary Carrington Training Centre, this prestigious academy offers top-tier coaching and an environment that fosters the development of technical proficiency and a winning mentality. With a rich history of producing world-class players, Manchester United Academy continues to be a sought-after destination for aspiring soccer stars.

3. Chelsea FC Academy

Located in Cobham, Surrey, the Chelsea FC Academy is renowned for its focus on developing well-rounded players with exceptional technical skills and tactical acumen. With access to cutting-edge training facilities and a curriculum designed to produce players who embody the ethos of “The Chelsea Way,” this academy has consistently churned out talents that have graced the highest echelons of football.

4. Arsenal Academy

Situated at Hale End, London, the Arsenal Academy has earned its place among the top football academies in England. Known for its emphasis on nurturing creativity and flair on the field, this football academy focuses on developing players who can contribute significantly to the game’s attacking aspect. Boasting a strong track record of promoting youth players to the first team, Arsenal Academy remains a beacon of hope for young talents dreaming of professional success.

5. Liverpool FC Academy

With a tradition of producing world-class players, the Liverpool FC Academy stands tall as a breeding ground for future soccer stars. Situated in Kirkby, Merseyside, the academy’s coaching philosophy revolves around the “Liverpool Way,” emphasizing teamwork, high-intensity play, and relentless work ethic. With an illustrious history and a passionate fan base, Liverpool FC Academy continues to inspire the next generation of footballers.

In the dynamic and highly competitive world of football, having the right training and support during the formative years can make all the difference for aspiring players. Football academies in England play a pivotal role in nurturing young talent, and among them, the International Development Academy leads the way with its comprehensive program designed to prepare players for the collegiate level and beyond. As the legacy of these prestigious academies continues to shape the future of football, young talents can dream of a brighter tomorrow and bigger fields by attending one of the football academies in England.

Interested in learning more about IDA in the UK? Check it out here!

IDA Florida at DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida continues to expand its campus with a brand new regulation-sized turf field. IDA Florida in partnership with DME is making significant strides in its commitment to providing top-notch facilities for athletes. The latest addition to the IDA Florida campus is an impressive 75,000+ sq. ft. turf soccer field. The new field will serve as the venue for our Middle School and High School soccer games next season and will also host the highly anticipated Soccer Summer Prep camp from June 25th – July 22nd. 

“The installation of a turf soccer field on campus at IDA Florida’s location is a testament to IDA and DME’s dedication to the development of young soccer players,” says Tommasso Trevisan, Director of International Development Academy. “The field is right next door to our state-of-the-art indoor training facility where athletes can utilize gym equipment to help take them to the next level.” 

This new facility will enhance training sessions, allowing players to sharpen their skills and elevate their game to new heights. The field’s synthetic nature ensures reliable performance, regardless of weather conditions, making it a perfect venue for competitive matches. The addition of lights will also make it possible to host games at night, even when the days get shorter in the winter. 

The investment that DME and IDA have made into growing the soccer program has shown how serious we are in developing our student-athletes.” says Todd Eason, Director of Soccer at IDA Florida/DME Academy. “The entire facility is a game-changer for the program. Our ability to now host high-level competitions, offer showcase events, and provide regular training on a regulation-sized field, will only bring more recognition to IDA Florida and DME Academy’s soccer program.”  

The significance of the new turf soccer field goes beyond mere convenience. By hosting the Soccer Summer Prep camp on this exceptional playing surface, DME Academy is providing a platform for aspiring young athletes to refine their abilities under the guidance of experienced coaches. The camp will attract talented soccer players from across the globe, creating a vibrant and competitive environment for skill development. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from quality coaches and engage in rigorous training sessions, preparing them for the challenges of competitive soccer and getting them ready for the collegiate level.

Interested in playing soccer at IDA Florida? Find out more about our program by filling out the form on this page!

This year has been one for the record books for IDA at DME Academy. The competitive season began on September 15, 2022 with a 8-1 victory over Ormond Beach SC U19. This outstanding team win would mark the first of many. The team had a 20-1-3 record overall, spanning regular season games and tournaments. The team attended and won two notable tournaments this season – IMG Cup and the Easter Cup International. 

IMG Cup is a prestigious tournament that attracts intense competition and a wealth of college coaches. This year, DME Academy took home the cup, breezing through the competition undefeated. They kicked off with a 2-0 win against BW Gottschee and went on to score 6 more goals in the final two games of the tournament defeating Smithtown Kickers 3-1 and Cedar Stars 3-0. 

The Easter International Cup is a high-level tournament, hosting 200 top youth soccer teams across the country as well as 25 international teams. The IDA at DME Academy squad had an undefeated run in the tournament with high scoring games against Pumas FC Honduras, ANPPS Parkland Soccer, ANISA International Soccer, ASEGL Plantation FC, and a huge 6-1 victory in the championship against Florida Rush OOSA. This was a major cup win for the Academy, boosting our status as one of the top youth programs in the country. 

One IDA at DME academy standout, Adrian Biaggi, committed to continue his soccer career at The University of Dayton – a division I school that competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference. Adrian came to the United States from Puerto Rico via IDA’s partnership with DME Academy during his senior year with no pre-existing college offers. Through hard work and exposure, Adrian earned 4 division I offers by April 1st of this year before ultimately choosing Dayton. 

In addition to the Academy’s on-field success, DME recently built a 75,000+ sq foot turf field, which will play a key role in enhancing training sessions and quality of games. With state-of-the-art facilities, the Academy will be able to host high-level competitions, offer showcase events, practice on a full-sized field, and have flexible training hours. 

This summer, IDA at DME Academy is hosting a 4-week intensive program that is designed to help serious soccer athletes improve their game. Players will participate in two daily training sessions, beach workouts, S&C sessions, receive a highlight video and professional photos, and have the option to take ESL courses. The camp is open to both boys and girls ages 13-19. 

Ready to ignite the dream? Speak to a representative today about opportunities with IDA at DME Academy!

Our IDA staff was recruiting at the 2019 Youdan Cup in England when they noticed a stand-out player. In a game between GPS National Team and Sheffield United, GPS player Jeremy De Leon took the spotlight. Jeremey, being a former Puerto Rico Surf player, decided to join IDA Valencia in 2020 to complete his high school education with USPA while training full-time.

A few key factors contributed to Jeremy’s success and growth as a player. At the International Development Academy, we strive to provide our players with all the resources, energy, and motivation needed to achieve their goals. However, success does not come without work. Jeremy embodies IDA’s values; he came to IDA with a rather small stature and built up his strength and technicality over time. His dedication to the game and the culture at IDA was met with a rewarding career at the International Development Academy and beyond.

At just 17 years old, Jeremy led the Puerto Rico Under-20 Team in the 2022 CONCACAF Championship Qualifier with two goals against Bermuda. De Leon also competed in Puerto Rico’s 2022 UNCAF U-19 Tournament in Belize, where he netted 2 out of 3 goals in a 3-3 draw. After one year at IDA, he became a regular with the senior Puerto Rican national team as well as catching eyes from Atletico Madrid and Villarreal.

Following a very successful trial with CD Castellon’s youth team, where he scored 11 goals in 10 games, Jeremy De Leon signed his first professional contract with CD Castellon’s first team—members of the third tier of Spanish soccer. The contract will last until 2024.

Jeremy’s professional debut in the Primera Division RFEF was in CD Castellon’s derby game against Villarreal CF B. He would go on to play against FC Barcelona B at the Estadi Johan Cruyff at just 18 years of age. Since joining the Castellon squad, Jeremy has earned match MVP, gained sufficient minutes, and proven his worth at the professional level. Perhaps Jeremy’s most treasured success to date was scoring in front of a sold-out crowd in Castellon’s 4-3 playoff victory against RC Deportivo on June 11, 2023. 

IDA offers ambitious student-athletes aged 15-22 the opportunity to develop their game while following a fulfilling academic curriculum. With four locations throughout the United States and Europe, players are in control of their own pathways to college and/or professional levels. Stay, train, and compete in over 50 matches a year while pursuing the next steps in an athletic and academic career.

Schedule a call with a representative to see how IDA can help you take the next step in your soccer development.

Soccer demands dedication, hard work, and commitment. For aspiring young players seeking to enhance their skills, enrolling in a soccer academy can be an excellent way to elevate their game. However, for those who are genuinely committed to developing their skills on the pitch, in the classroom, and beyond, a soccer boarding school could be the ideal choice.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of embracing the soccer academy approach, and specifically, why soccer boarding schools, like International Development Academy (IDA), are becoming an increasingly popular choice for young players.

What is a Soccer Boarding School?

A soccer boarding school is a specialized institution that combines high-level soccer training with academic studies. Students live on campus and receive intensive soccer coaching from experienced coaches, while also attending classes and pursuing their academic goals.

The Benefits of Soccer Boarding Schools

1. Intensive Soccer Training

The extensive soccer training that players receive is one of the key advantages of joining a soccer boarding school. Students may improve on their talents and develop their game in an organized and focused setting with regular training sessions.

2. High-Level Coaching

Soccer academies like IDA build their coaching staff with experienced and qualified coaches who have a deep understanding of the game. Our coaches are licensed and have various experiences playing and coaching at the academy, college, and professional levels. This means that student-athletes receive expert guidance and coaching, which can help them reach their full potential as players.

3. Competitive Environment

Soccer boarding schools attract players from all over the world, which creates a highly competitive environment. This can be a great way for young players to push themselves and improve their game, as they are constantly challenged by their peers.

4. Academic Support

While soccer is the main focus of a soccer boarding school, academic studies are also a very important part of the curriculum. Students receive academic support and guidance, which can help them achieve their academic goals while pursuing their soccer dreams. IDA boasts a specialized staff at each of our locations to ensure all students are on a path to success both on and off of the field.

5. Personal Development

Attending a school that follows the academy approach can also help young players develop important life skills such as independence, responsibility, and time management. Living away from home and balancing academic and soccer commitments can be challenging, but will also be a valuable learning experience.

Embracing the Soccer Academy Approach

For young players who are serious about their soccer development, embracing the soccer academy approach can be a great way to take their game to the next level. International Development Academy’s boarding school provides a unique and valuable experience, and gives students all the tools they need to continue their academic and professional careers at the next level.

By embracing the academy approach, IDA’s student-athletes have found their transition into collegiate sports and studies to be much smoother than what high school students often experience. This means that they can continue moving forward in their development at the next level, not take steps back.

Whether you’re a player, a parent, or a coach, it’s important to consider the benefits of the soccer academy approach and explore the options available. By embracing this approach, young players can develop their skills, pursue their academic goals, and achieve their soccer dreams.

High school is a crucial time in any student’s life. It is difficult to juggle high school academics and high-level athletes at the same time, so we have partnered with some of the best in the business to accommodate our student-athletes to ensure they are set up for a successful future both on and off of the field.

IDA offers high school academics that fulfill the high school curriculum needs of both the United States and the United Kingdom.

US Performance Academy – Spain & UK

We partner with USPA, a fully accredited, NCAA approved online high school academics that allow our student athletes to train full-time. USPA ensures all student-athletes receive a personalized experience by pairing them with a “learning coach”. A learning coach serves as their advisor, advocate, and mentor. This is a great tool and resource to ensure the student stays on task and is advancing as intended. 

Course work at USPA is granular and flexible. It includes a core curriculum, honors and AP classes, and electives chosen by the student. Graduation requirements include the following: English (4 credits), Math (3 credits, at least to Algebra II), Science (3 credits, including Biology and Chemistry), Social Science (3 credits including World History and US History), World Language (2 credits), and Elective Courses (5 credits, including .5 credits of Health). 

USPA also offers College Counseling services to all of their student-athletes to assist them in the decision of further education. USPA services are available to our athletes in the Spain and UK Academies. 

Kings InterHigh – Spain & UK

IDA is partnered with Kings InterHigh, UK’s leading online secondary school. Evidently Kings InterHigh provides expert instructors, flexible learning done anywhere, engaging and innovative technology, 24/7 access to lessons, and small class sizes. Classes online are in a live, interactive manner to encourage participation and involvement. Students compete to gain points and bond with one another in a tight-knit group using a “House” system.

Kings InterHigh graduation requirements include 3 IGCSE subjects (Double Award Science, English Language, and Math), along with 4 additional GCSE subjects, selected from a comprehensive list. Along with GCSE’s, there is an A-Level option that includes 3 subjects with the option to add additional courses. 

Spain and the UK offer Kings InterHigh to our student athletes.

Exceed DME Academy – Florida

Exceed DME Academy set up student athletes in Florida. A Personalized Learning Plan (PLP) provides individual-based learning at DME Academy. The curriculum is a teacher-based learning path that includes the students’ interests and PLP. All students have the opportunity for honors, advanced, and AP courses. 

Exceed DME Academy offers 127 courses, conducted in a hybrid fashion (mix of online and in-person), along with 10 AP courses and 41 electives. Also, students will have small classes with an emphasis on individualized 1-on-1 learning with the teacher.

Along with basic classes, Exceed DME students have various resources for college guidance programs, SAT and ACT prep courses. The options for dual enrollment through the University of Pittsburgh online is also available. This is all done with a flexible schedule to ensure all student-athletes have ample time to take care of both athletics and academics. 

DME Academy is proud of their 70% international student body with 25 countries represented. DME offers summer immersion programs to help international student-athletes get up to speed in the classroom and in the community.

To learn more about our academic offerings, click HERE.

Soccer, also known as football in many countries, is considered the world’s most popular sport. It is played and watched by millions of people across the globe and is growing more and more in places that traditionally aren’t considered “Soccer Countries.” For young soccer players who dream of playing at the professional or collegiate level, choosing an international soccer school can provide numerous benefits. In this article, we will explore the benefits of choosing an international soccer school specifically located in Valencia, Spain, London, UK, and Rome, Italy.

Exposure to International Coaching Styles

One of the biggest benefits of choosing an international soccer academy is the exposure to different coaching styles. Coaches from different countries have different approaches to the game, and players who attend an international soccer school will have the opportunity to learn from coaches who have different backgrounds and training methods. This exposure can help players develop a more well-rounded understanding of the game and improve their overall skills.

IDA takes pride in their coach-selection process. Our coaches mainly have UEFA B or higher coaching licenses and carry some level of experience playing professionally or at the collegiate level. You can find out more about our coaching staff by heading to our academies page and looking at each individual academy.

Cultural Immersion

Another benefit of attending an international soccer school is the opportunity to experience different cultures. Valencia, Spain, London, UK, and Rome, Italy are all culturally rich cities with a lot to offer. By attending an international soccer academy in one of these cities, players will be able to immerse themselves in the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. This experience can be invaluable for personal growth and development.

Language Learning

In addition to cultural immersion, attending an international soccer school can also provide an opportunity for language learning. Learning a new language can be challenging, but it is a valuable skill that can open up many opportunities in life. By attending an international soccer school, players will have the opportunity to learn a new language and practice it in a real-world setting. This can help players become more confident and comfortable communicating with people from different backgrounds.

High-Quality Training Facilities

International soccer schools often have state-of-the-art training facilities that are designed to help players reach their full potential. From high-quality pitches to advanced training equipment, these facilities provide players with the tools they need to improve their skills and become better players. By attending an international soccer school, players will have access to these facilities and be able to train in an environment that is conducive to their development.

Exposure to Professional Scouts, Teams and Methodology

Finally, attending an international soccer academy can provide players with exposure to professional scouts, teams and methodology. International scouts are always on the lookout for talented young players who have the potential to play at a professional level. By attending an international soccer school, players will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially catch the eye of a professional scout. This exposure can be invaluable for players who dream of playing soccer at the highest level.

At IDA, you’ll have the opportunity to train with and play against local professional clubs as well. This combined with the elite IDA methodology and training is what equips our players so well for years to come and puts them on a pathway to success from the moment they step foot on our campus.

In conclusion, choosing an international soccer school can provide numerous benefits for young soccer players. From exposure to international coaching styles to cultural immersion and language learning, attending an international soccer school can help players develop a more well-rounded understanding of the game and the world around them. With high-quality training facilities and the potential for exposure to professional scouts, attending an international soccer school can be a life-changing experience for young players who dream of playing at a professional level.

If you are a young soccer player looking to take your skills to the next level, attending a soccer academy before you head off to college can be an excellent way to do so. There are many soccer academies located throughout the United States, but if you live in Florida or are willing to travel there, you should consider attending a Florida soccer academy. Here are some of the benefits of choosing a Florida soccer academy.

Access to High-Quality Coaching

One of the most significant benefits of attending a soccer academy in Florida is the access you will have to high-quality coaching. Florida is home to some of the best soccer coaches in the country, many of whom have played professionally or coached at the highest levels of the sport. By attending a Florida soccer academy, you will have the opportunity to work with these coaches and benefit from their expertise. In particular, IDA Florida in partnership with DME Academy has some of the best coaching staff at IDA. Their focus is mainly on developing players and preparing them to take the next step of playing collegiate soccer.

Exposure to College Coaches

Another benefit of attending a soccer academy down south is the exposure you will have to college coaches. Many college coaches attend soccer tournaments and events in Florida, looking for talented players to recruit to their programs. By attending a soccer academy in Florida, you may have the opportunity to play in front of these coaches and make connections that could help you in your college search.

Top-Notch Facilities

Florida soccer academies also offer top-notch facilities for training and playing. Many of these academies have state-of-the-art soccer fields, weight rooms, and training rooms, all designed to help you reach your full potential as a player. IDA Florida, in partnership with DME Academy has over 47,000 square feet of facilities and latest training equipment. They also recently built a brand new turf field that is state-of-the-art. Having access to these facilities can make a big difference in your training, and can give you an edge over other players who do not have access to such resources.

Competition

Florida is home to some of the best youth soccer leagues in the country, and attending a Florida soccer academy will give you the opportunity to compete against some of the best players in your age group. This competition can help you improve your game and prepare you for the challenges of playing at the college level.

Weather

Finally, the weather in Florida is ideal for playing soccer. With warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, you will be able to train and play year-round, without worrying about the weather interfering with your training.

To sum it all up, attending a soccer academy in Florida can be an excellent way to take your soccer skills to the next level. With access to high-quality coaching, exposure to college coaches, top-notch facilities, competition, and ideal weather conditions, attending a Florida soccer academy can help you reach your full potential as a player. If you are a young soccer player looking to improve your game, consider attending a Florida soccer academy and see how it can benefit you.