The International Development Academy  is excited to announce a new partnership with Taka, a cutting-edge platform redefining how players, coaches, and recruiters connect and collaborate. By integrating advanced technology, professional analysis, and proven recruitment tools, Taka aligns perfectly with IDA’s mission to prepare players for the next level—whether in college or the professional game.

Taka is a single platform for players, coaches, and recruiters that utilizes industry-leading technology and professional soccer analysts to elevate youth soccer. The platform provides athletes with personalized highlights and crucial exposure to college and professional recruiters, while streamlining performance analysis for coaches. With over 50,000 Athlete Profiles, 25,000 analyzed games, and 6 million individual highlights, Taka is already making a massive impact on the global game.

As IDA continues to combine elite European training environments with academic flexibility and personalized support, this partnership adds a powerful new layer: world-class digital analysis and direct access to high-level recruitment networks. With Taka’s strong presence across MLS NEXT and the college soccer landscape, IDA athletes gain unprecedented visibility and opportunity.

“Our goal has always been to give players every tool they need to succeed, both on and off the pitch,” said Tommaso Trevisan, Chief Operating Officer at IDA. “Taka enhances that mission by connecting performance to opportunity in a real, tangible way.”

This collaboration marks a major step forward for IDA’s commitment to innovation, combining high-performance development with trusted technology that opens doors at every level of the game.

Learn more about Taka HERE.

At the International Development Academy (IDA), we are committed to shaping not only top-tier footballers but well-rounded individuals prepared for success in life beyond the pitch. Our player development model blends elite football training, academic preparation, and character building—helping young athletes reach the next level with confidence and ambition.

As the new season approaches, we’re proud to highlight the achievements of several of our student-athletes who have officially committed to continuing both their academic and football journeys at institutions across the United States and Canada. Their dedication, growth, and discipline during their time at IDA have earned them these exciting opportunities.

Meet Our Collegiate Athletes:

• Jacob Sull – Committed to the University of New Brunswick, Jacob stood out at IDA for his technical ability and tactical intelligence. His next step to UNB is a testament to his dedication and consistency on and off the pitch.
• Evan Butler – Evan will be joining Lincoln University of Missouri, where he looks forward to bringing the same energy and leadership he demonstrated throughout his time at IDA.
• Isaiah Harrison – Set to begin at Monroe University, Isaiah has been a dynamic and creative midfielder at IDA, and we’re excited to see him take his skills to a highly competitive program.
• Jacob Hunter – Jacob has committed to Northwestern Colorado Community College, continuing his development at the collegiate level after showcasing his work ethic and resilience at IDA.
• Randy Mendoza – Randy will be heading to Southern Wesleyan University. Known for his solid defensive play and football IQ, Randy made significant progress during his time at IDA.
• Aidan McGuire – Aidan is set to join North Idaho College, where he will continue his football and academic journey. His time at IDA has been marked by constant development and a clear passion for the game.

A Testament to the IDA Pathway

Each of these commitments marks a milestone—an important step toward a future shaped by the lessons, values, and experiences gained at IDA. These student-athletes have embraced the challenge of developing their craft while maintaining academic focus, and we’re proud to have been part of their journey.

As they prepare to transition to collegiate environments in the coming months, they carry with them the discipline, drive, and ambition that define the IDA approach. Their continued success highlights the strength of our development pathway and the opportunities we help create for aspiring athletes worldwide.

To our future college athletes—congratulations! We can’t wait to see the next chapters of your story unfold.

The inaugural IDA Easter Cup launched over Easter Weekend 2025 at IDA Valencia, welcoming 36 teams from multiple countries for an unforgettable blend of international competition, cultural exploration, and player development.

Elite academies such as Real Zaragoza, CD Roda, UD Vall de Uxo, and Patacona CF were among those represented, with matches spanning the U9 to U12 age groups. The event provided young players the chance to test themselves on a global stage at one of Europe’s premier youth training environments.

More than a tournament, the IDA Easter Cup was a full experience. Teams toured the historic Mestalla Stadium, home of Valencia CF, and enjoyed freshly made Valencian paella—a local tradition that brought everyone together off the pitch.

Champions

Congratulations to the teams who lifted the trophy in 2025:
U9 Boys: FC Benaguacil
U10 Boys: UD Vall de Uxo
U11 Boys: CD Roda
U12 Boys: CD Roda
U12 Girls: Real Zaragoza

MVPs

Recognizing the top individual performers from each division:
U9 Boys MVP: Alex Cervantes (FC Benaguacil)
U10 Boys MVP: Pau Casanova (UD Vall de Uxo)
U11 Boys MVP: Albert Rios (CD Roda)
U12 Boys MVP: Víctor Herrero (CD Roda)
U12 Girls MVP: Vega Marin (Real Zaragoza)

About IDA Valencia

IDA Valencia is a full-time international soccer academy that provides elite-level training, education, and a complete player development pathway for student-athletes aged 15–22. Located just minutes from downtown Valencia, the academy offers top-tier facilities and a professional training environment year-round. Learn more about the International Development Academy HERE.

As the host site of the Easter Cup, IDA Valencia provided the perfect setting for players to train, compete, and experience football in one of Spain’s most passionate soccer cities.

Tournament Director Jordi Gómez reflected on the goals of the tournament:
“With the IDA Easter Cup, we now bring the younger ones—U9 to U12—to Valencia so they can play in a tournament where different countries are represented. The initiative is about laying the first stepping stone for what this event will become in the coming years. The goal is to grow this tournament into something as big and as impactful as Surf Cup International.”

Save the Date – IDA Easter Cup 2026

Following the success of this year’s event, we’re proud to announce that the IDA Easter Cup will return to Valencia in 2026. Mark your calendars: April 2–5, 2026.

The 2025 IDA Easter Cup proved that meaningful international experiences can begin at the youngest levels—connecting players through football, culture, and shared passion. We look forward to building on this success for years to come.

IDA Valencia took a major step forward on the international stage this April, competing in the 23rd edition of the MIC Cup in Costa Brava, Spain. Known as one of the most prestigious youth soccer tournaments in the world, the 2025 MIC broke records with 444 teams from 44 countries, more than 1,000 matches played, and over 10,000 total participants.

This year, IDA Valencia proudly brought six teams to the event: U14, U15, U16, U18 Navy, U18 Royal, and U19. Each team faced world-class opposition and embraced the opportunity to represent IDA on one of the biggest youth stages in the game.

Competing with the Best

Throughout the week, IDA teams were matched up against top academies from around the world, including Arsenal FC, Villarreal CF, Inter Miami CF, Cambridge United, BCN Academy Brazil, Parkland Soccer Club, and Nàstic Sports Academy.

One of the tournament’s most memorable moments came when the IDA U16 boys took the field against Arsenal FC. In a hard-fought match, Luke Solomon scored a standout goal—an unforgettable experience for both him and the team as they challenged one of Europe’s most respected academies.

Thanks to strong performances across the board, three IDA Valencia teams—U15, U18 Royal, and U18 Navy—qualified for the Championship Bracket, competing in the top-tier knockout rounds of the tournament. Advancing at this level is a significant achievement and a testament to the depth and quality of the IDA program.

U19s Capture Silver Final Trophy

While the U19s narrowly missed qualification for the Championship bracket, they responded with resilience and purpose in the Silver Division, which featured strong teams from across the tournament field. The U19s closed out their campaign with a commanding 4–1 victory over Brazil’s Next Academy in the Silver Final, capturing IDA Valencia’s first-ever trophy at the MIC Tournament. This was a proud moment and a meaningful milestone for the players and staff alike.

Partner Spotlight: Toronto United FC’s MIC Cup Journey

We also want to spotlight the journey of our partners at Toronto United FC, whose U13 High Performance team took part in MIC 2025 and represented their academy with pride. Their strong playoff run concluded in the Round of 32 against a talented Crystal Palace side.

Throughout the tournament, Toronto United FC had the chance to face elite competition—including matches against PSV Eindhoven and Crystal Palace—providing an invaluable experience that most players only dream of. To finish among the top 32 in their division is a credit to the players’ resilience and preparation.

A special thank you goes out to the families and supporters who backed the team throughout the trip, and to the Toronto United FC staff for their continued collaboration with IDA. From the residency phase to MIC itself, we were proud to support their journey and look forward to their continued growth this summer.

Looking Ahead

MIC 2025 was more than a tournament—it was a platform for development, exposure, and growth. From high-level competition to cultural immersion and team bonding, the week reflected everything IDA stands for: preparing players for the next level through elite environments and global experiences.

IDA Valencia returns from Costa Brava with one trophy, three Championship Bracket qualifications, and a renewed commitment to providing world-class opportunities for student-athletes.

IDA Valencia was proud to host Mike Brizendine, Head Coach of Virginia Tech Men’s Soccer, for a multi-day visit that combined player scouting, academy immersion, and high-level collaboration. The visit highlighted the growing connection between international development platforms like IDA and elite NCAA Division I programs.

Coach Brizendine’s time in Valencia offered a comprehensive look at the IDA model—from how we develop players on the pitch to how we prepare them off it. He toured the full academy campus, including residence life and training facilities, and engaged directly with our technical staff to understand the structure, daily routines, and long-term vision of IDA.

Throughout his visit, Coach Mike observed training sessions across several teams, including U18, U19, and Navy squads. He also attended live match play—watching both the Quart Senior and Quart B teams—where he was able to assess players in real game environments. He noted both the depth of talent within the academy and the professionalism of the matchday atmosphere, identifying several standout players who met the profile for NCAA Division I competition.

Players participated in a College Pathways Workshop led by Michael Michailidis, IDA’s College Placement Consultant. The session gave players insight into the recruitment process, expectations of U.S. college coaches, and how to best position themselves academically and athletically. Following the workshop, Coach Mike and Michael held individual one-on-one meetings with student-athletes exploring the U.S. college pathway—providing direct, personalized guidance that players found incredibly valuable.

Coach Brizendine also engaged in thoughtful discussions with IDA’s Technical Director of Football, U.S. Consultant, and Director of Football about Virginia Tech’s playing style, recruitment needs, and how IDA can continue aligning its development model with the standards of top collegiate programs. He spent time with coaching staff at the residence, exchanging ideas on training methodology and fostering a culture that prepares players for life on and off the field.

For the players at IDA Valencia, the visit was more than just an opportunity to be scouted—it was a real-world connection to their goals. Being seen and evaluated by a coach from one of the top NCAA programs brought energy and purpose to the week. It also reinforced the value of international development pathways and the unique exposure IDA offers through its global network.

At IDA, our mission is to develop players technically, tactically, and personally—while opening doors to the next level. Visits like this bring that mission to life and provide our student-athletes with meaningful access to college opportunities.

We thank Coach Brizendine for his time, insights, and support, and look forward to continuing to build a strong relationship with Virginia Tech and other top collegiate programs across the U.S.

In the dynamic world of youth football, partnerships play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aspiring athletes. One standout collaboration is between the International Development Academy (IDA) and Toronto United FC. This alliance not only nurtures talent but also creates genuine pathways for Canadian players to grow and compete on a global stage.

A testament to the partnership’s success is the journey of three young athletes — Sebastien Blanchet, Liam Torres-Cook, and Malcolm Thompson. Their connection with IDA began at a 2023 summer camp, originally intended as an opportunity to showcase their skills. But what started as a camp experience quickly evolved into something much greater. Today, all three are key members of the IDA Valencia Academy. Sebastien and Malcolm are entering their second seasons, while Liam is embarking on his first — marking significant strides in their footballing journeys.

The impact of collaborations like this goes far beyond individual success stories. For clubs like Toronto United FC, international ties offer invaluable exposure, providing players with real opportunities to be scouted, trained, and immersed in high-level football environments. It’s about more than the game — it’s about building resilience, cultural understanding, and the mindset needed to pursue professional aspirations.

Further underscoring their commitment to development, Toronto United FC will compete in the prestigious Mediterranean International Cup (MIC) in April 2025. Organized by Global Sports Experiences, a key IDA partner specializing in sports travel, this tournament is a golden opportunity for players to face off against elite teams from around the world — an experience that could be truly life-changing.

Francisco Albiñana, Global Partnership Manager at IDA, reflects on the importance of this collaboration:

“This alliance is a clear example of how international partnerships are crucial in the world of football for developing student-athletes worldwide. It’s now our third year working with Toronto United FC, a benchmark for youth football development in Toronto, and we’re proud to serve as a platform for their players and community to grow both on and off the pitch.”

Partnerships like the one between IDA and Toronto United FC are redefining the landscape of youth football. They prove that with the right support and opportunities, local talent can not only reach global standards — but exceed them.

At the International Development Academy, we are committed to helping student-athletes reach their full potential—both academically and athletically. That commitment is brought to life through our Spain Academy, where a unique partnership between TPH Academy and Mas Camarena School offers a world-class academic experience built specifically for elite athletes.

Located just minutes from downtown Valencia, Mas Camarena Resort serves as the home base for IDA Spain’s training and residential life. Just steps away, student-athletes pursue their education at Mas Camarena School, one of Spain’s leading international academic institutions. Together with TPH Academy, this partnership allows us to deliver a flexible yet structured academic model that supports every student-athlete’s journey.

The academic program combines TPH Academy’s NCAA-approved online curriculum with on-site academic support and access to Mas Camarena’s dynamic learning environment. Students benefit from a fully accredited education that aligns with NCAA eligibility standards while enjoying the flexibility needed to balance training, competition, and travel.

Student-athletes follow personalized academic pathways, with access to AP, Honors, and Dual Enrollment courses, as well as over 70 online electives in subjects such as languages, business, psychology, and sports science. With consistent oversight from a Head of Academics and dedicated Academic Success Coaches, each student receives individualized support to stay on track and thrive academically.

The setting at Mas Camarena enhances the educational experience even further. Students study in an international environment, collaborate with peers from around the world, and gain access to select in-person academic resources—all while living and training on a campus designed for high-performance athletes.

This hybrid model allows students to manage their daily schedule while still receiving structured academic guidance. Whether working toward college admission, pursuing NCAA eligibility, or exploring future career paths, every IDA Spain student-athlete is supported every step of the way.

At IDA, we don’t believe student-athletes should have to choose between academic success and athletic development. Through our partnership with TPH Academy and Mas Camarena School, IDA Spain offers a premier academic experience that mirrors the ambition and discipline found on the pitch—preparing our athletes to succeed in the classroom, in college, and in life.

To learn more about the IDA Spain academic model or to connect with our team, please contact us HERE.

The International Development Academy is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Dragons High Performance Training  in Durban, South Africa.

Following a successful experience at Surf Cup International Salou, Coach Mthunzi, Director and Head Coach of Dragons HPT, saw the potential for a collaboration that would expand opportunities for his players. Through this partnership, Dragons HPT athletes will have full access to IDA’s elite training programs, tournaments, and international experiences, ensuring a pathway for top-tier player development both on and off the field.

What This Partnership Offers Dragons HPT Players

• Access to IDA’s global network of programs and competitions
• Exposure to international training and recruitment opportunities
• Professional high-performance training designed to enhance individual and team development
• Clear pathways to collegiate and professional football opportunities

Coach Mthunzi emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating that it will provide “young talents in the Dragons HPT football program with access to world-class training, international exposure, and pathways to professional and academic opportunities abroad.”

By combining IDA’s expertise in global player development with Dragons HPT’s commitment to nurturing local talent, this collaboration will provide young athletes with the resources, training, and exposure needed to reach their full potential.

This partnership marks an important step in expanding international football development and fostering new opportunities for aspiring players.

As part of our ongoing scouting program, International Development Academy is heading to the Easter International Cup in Orlando/Kissimmee, FL, to identify talented players ready to take their game to the next level. Two of our professional coaches will be in attendance, actively seeking athletes who have the potential to thrive in our international programs.

Players aged 15 to 19 will also have the opportunity to train with IDA’s elite coaching staff in a dedicated session designed to showcase their skills. This session will allow players to experience IDA’s methodology, which focuses on technical development, tactical awareness, and the professional training environment that defines our academy.

The training session will take place on Wednesday, April 16th, and will provide a unique chance for players to gain exposure, receive valuable coaching feedback, and immerse themselves in a high-performance training atmosphere.

At IDA, we are committed to developing well-rounded athletes who are prepared to compete at the highest levels. Our international programs offer top-tier coaching, competitive opportunities, and the resources needed for players to elevate their game.

If you are looking to be seen by international coaches and take the next step in your soccer journey, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Registration is free, so sign up today HERE.

The International Development Academy proudly marks its 5th anniversary, celebrating five years of elite training, international competition, and life-changing opportunities for young soccer players. Since its inception in 2020, IDA has grown into a premier global academy, helping players reach college, developing professional athletes, and expanding to new locations worldwide.

A Journey of Excellence: From 2020 to Now

From its beginnings in the United Kingdom and Spain, IDA has continually evolved, introducing cutting-edge training programs and fostering a unique environment where players develop both on and off the field. Over the past five years, IDA has solidified its place as a leader in international player development, celebrating milestones that reflect its growth, impact, and commitment to excellence.

2020:
IDA launched its first academies in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Rome in partnership with Rome City Institute, providing a structured pathway for aspiring players to train and compete at an elite level. Early standout players such as Dylan Fox-Arnold, Liam Gilligan, Marcos Sotarello, and Jeremy de Leon set the foundation for what would become a thriving international academy.

2021:
The introduction of Surf Cup International Salou marked a significant milestone, bringing together top youth talent from around the world. The tournament quickly established itself as one of the premier international youth competitions, offering players unparalleled exposure and high-level competition. Additionally, IDA UK finished as runners-up in the ADFA Mark Coombs Cup, demonstrating the academy’s growing competitiveness in domestic English football. Launched in 2021, the IDA Partner Program connects clubs, federations, agencies, influencers, coaches, and educational institutions worldwide, expanding opportunities for young athletes.

2022:
IDA expanded into Florida, broadening its reach within the U.S. and strengthening its reputation as a global player development hub. This year also saw over 40 IDA players commit to college programs, highlighting IDA’s success in bridging the gap between youth development and collegiate soccer. Meanwhile, IDA UK captured its first major trophy, winning the ADFA Mark Coombs Cup, solidifying its presence as a force in regional English football.

2023:
The first-ever IDA summer camp program was launched, welcoming over 80 players for an immersive training experience. Additionally, IDA expanded its global tournament presence with the introduction of Surf Cup International Rome, further enhancing opportunities for young athletes to showcase their talent on an international stage. IDA UK continued its success, finishing as runners-up in the ADFA Mark Coombs Cup for the second time in three years. IDA also expanded its global footprint, partnering with the BH Cup in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. By 2023, the IDA Partner Program surpassed 50 active partners across numerous countries, helping IDA reach new markets, enhance player recruitment, and increase access to top-level competitions and academic pathways. 

2024:
A historic year for IDA, Jeremy De Leon signed for Real Madrid and traveled with the senior team for the Champions League final, showcasing the caliber of talent developed within the academy. Two IDA players were also drafted into MLS, continuing the academy’s legacy of producing professional-level talent. A partnership with Remarkables, a high-level video analysis tool, was introduced, now included in every player’s tuition to enhance development and scouting opportunities. On the competition front, IDA Valencia U19 Navy won Torneo Caudiel, while IDA Valencia U17 Navy reached the Surf Cup International semifinals. IDA UK reached the Suburban Football League League Cup final, narrowly missing out on the title after a penalty shootout, and finished as runners-up in the ADFA Mark Coombs Cup for the third time. Surf Cup International Morocco was launched, adding another premier event to its growing tournament portfolio. IDA Brazil in partnership with Cruzeiro was launched to mark IDA’s 5th location.

2025:
IDA’s momentum continues with major player signings, as Neville Knowles III extends his contract with Villarreal and JD Layman joins Sporting de Gijón. The academy also marks a significant expansion with the launch of IDA Salou-Barcelona, further strengthening its international presence. Over 100 players commit to college programs, demonstrating IDA’s ongoing success in player placement. Additionally, the academy introduces the inaugural IDA Valencia Cup, further establishing its leadership in international youth competition.

With five years of remarkable growth and achievements, IDA remains committed to providing world-class training, competition, and development opportunities for players worldwide. The journey continues, and the future of IDA looks brighter than ever.

Developing Future Soccer Stars

IDA has built a reputation for producing top talent at both the collegiate and professional levels, providing a pathway for players to reach the highest levels of the game. From the UEFA Champions League to the MLS SuperDraft, IDA alumni continue to make their mark on the global soccer stage.

At the professional level, one of the academy’s most inspiring success stories is Jeremy de Leon, who rose from IDA Spain to sign with Real Madrid. His journey exemplifies the elite training and exposure that IDA provides. Other rising stars include Neville Knowles III, who extended his contract with Villarreal, and JD Layman, who secured a professional contract with Sporting de Gijón. The academy’s pipeline to the pro game continues to expand, helping players transition to top clubs in Europe and beyond.

On the collegiate front, IDA continues to place players at some of the most competitive soccer programs in the U.S. Arik Duncan and Harrison Bertos are prime examples of this success, both developing their skills at IDA Valencia before excelling in NCAA soccer and earning selections in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. Duncan became a standout at the University of California, Berkeley, leading the team in goals and points before being drafted 44th overall by CF Montréal. Bertos made his mark at the University of Washington, where his performances earned him a 31st overall selection by San Diego FC. Meanwhile, Jake Jacobi’s commitment to Virginia Tech further highlights IDA’s ability to place players at top Division I programs, ensuring they receive both elite competition and academic opportunities.

Beyond traditional pathways, IDA has also played a transformative role in shaping the lives of players from unique and challenging backgrounds. Harwan Al-Zubaidi’s rise from the streets of Yemen to professional football in Iraq is a testament to the academy’s ability to change lives through soccer. His journey underscores the power of IDA’s training, global exposure, and support in helping young talents break barriers and achieve their dreams.

With each passing year, IDA continues to develop players who not only succeed on the field but also carry the academy’s values and training philosophy into their professional and collegiate careers. The future remains bright as IDA strengthens its global impact, providing opportunities for the next generation of soccer stars.

A Global Soccer Network

IDA has experienced remarkable growth in player enrollment, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for aspiring footballers worldwide. Starting with just 33 players in 2020, the academy has expanded significantly, now supporting over 150 athletes in 2025. This steady increase reflects the growing demand for IDA’s elite training programs and its ability to develop top talent. With players representing more than 32 countries, IDA continues to strengthen its global reach, providing unparalleled opportunities for athletes to elevate their game both on and off the field.

Celebrating Five Years of Impact

As IDA marks its five-year anniversary, it is a moment to reflect on the academy’s journey, growth, and the countless players who have thrived through its programs. From its early beginnings to becoming a global force in player development, IDA has continuously evolved, shaping the futures of young athletes both on and off the field.

“We are incredibly proud of what IDA has achieved in just five years,” said Tommaso Trevisan, IDA COO. “Our mission has always been to provide top-tier soccer development while fostering personal growth, and this milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players, coaches, and staff. We are excited to continue building new opportunities and expanding our impact worldwide.”

With a strong foundation and a clear vision for the future, IDA remains committed to pushing boundaries, connecting players globally, and opening doors for the next generation of talent. The journey so far has been remarkable, and the next chapter promises even greater opportunities for players to develop, compete, and achieve their dreams.