For many young footballers, the dream is clear.
Compete at the highest level possible. Continue developing. Earn opportunities through the game.
But for Ruben Rosado, that dream required a decision that few players are willing to make.
At just 15 years old, the goalkeeper from Puerto Rico left home and moved across the Atlantic to join International Development Academy (IDA) Valencia in Spain.
Years later, that decision has led him to the next chapter of his journey: a commitment to Suffolk University in Boston, where he will continue his academic and athletic career while receiving full tuition support.
More importantly, it helped shape the person he has become.
Before arriving in Spain, Ruben had already established himself as one of Puerto Rico’s promising young goalkeepers.
Playing for Puerto Rico Surf and representing the Puerto Rico National Team, he developed in a football environment that continues to grow and produce talented players.
“The football environment has grown a lot in Puerto Rico, and it helped me be ready for what awaited me in Spain,” Ruben explained.
Like many ambitious young players, he knew that continuing to challenge himself against stronger competition would be essential to reaching the next level.
When the opportunity to join IDA Valencia presented itself, he saw a pathway that aligned perfectly with his goals.
“When arriving at IDA, my goal was to find a college that was a good fit for me while keeping my level at a high standard.”
For international players, choosing the right environment can change everything.
Ruben wasn’t simply looking for a team.
He was looking for exposure, development, and the opportunity to compete against high-level opposition every day.
“I decided to join IDA Valencia to get more exposure and play high-level international competition.”
When he arrived in Spain, one thing stood out immediately.
“My first impressions were that the mentality and training were different. Very professional and organized football.”
That professional environment would soon become his new normal.
Daily training. High expectations. Constant competition.
Exactly the type of environment ambitious players need to continue progressing.
Moving abroad is never easy.
Moving abroad at 15 is something else entirely.
New country. New culture. New responsibilities.
While many teenagers are still relying on their families for everyday support, Ruben was learning how to manage life independently while balancing football and academics.
“I moved when I was 15 to Valencia. This helped me mature way faster as I had to take care of myself and my space while also maintaining a student-athlete lifestyle.”
That personal growth is one of the defining aspects of the IDA experience.
Players are challenged every day – not only on the field, but in the way they manage their time, handle responsibility, and prepare for life beyond football.
For Ruben, those lessons would prove just as valuable as anything learned during training.
Valencia is known around the world for producing technically gifted footballers.
For goalkeepers, that means the standard is exceptionally high.
“The biggest challenge I faced was staying at the high technical level many goalkeepers have in Valencia.”
Fortunately, Ruben found himself in an environment built to help players continue improving every day.
One of the biggest influences on his development came through his daily goalkeeper training sessions with Luis Pascual.
“Everyday goalkeeper training with Luis Pascual kept me technically at a high level, while also getting great mental advice from my coaches and psychologists.”
For goalkeepers, development is often about much more than shot-stopping.
Decision-making. Positioning. Confidence. Mental resilience. Consistency.
The combination of elite coaching and daily competition allowed Ruben to continue raising his standards while preparing for the demands of college soccer.
Unlike many players, Ruben always believed college soccer was a realistic pathway.
But as his time at IDA progressed, that vision became clearer.
“The opportunity has always been real for me, but beginning this season was when I knew it’s what I wanted to do.”
The recruitment process required initiative and persistence.
Rather than waiting for opportunities to arrive, Ruben took an active role in creating them.
“I sent out many emails to different coaches and managed to receive interest and offers from several schools. From there I just chose the right fit for me.”
That combination of preparation, exposure, and personal initiative ultimately led him to Suffolk University.
The opportunity included a roster spot and full tuition support – an achievement that reflects years of hard work and commitment.
For Ruben, choosing a university wasn’t simply about soccer.
It was about finding the right environment academically, athletically, and personally.
“I chose this school because I thought it was the best opportunity to grow in an environment I enjoyed.”
Located in downtown Boston, Suffolk University offered exactly what he was looking for.
A strong Business School.
A competitive NCAA environment.
And a program where he believes he can continue developing.
“I love the Business School in the Downtown Boston area and the team competes in one of the most competitive divisions in all of NCAA DIII.”
Now, his focus shifts to the next challenge.
“I am super excited to get to work, compete for the CNE title, and make an NCAA Tournament appearance.”
Ruben’s story isn’t simply about earning a place on a college roster.
It’s about transformation.
A young goalkeeper left Puerto Rico at 15 years old in pursuit of something bigger.
Years later, he leaves IDA Valencia not only as a college athlete, but as a more mature, independent, and confident young man.
When asked to reflect on his journey, his answer perfectly captures the impact the experience has had on his life.
“I think IDA has been the most important part of my life. I have been completely shaped by this experience as I have lived here most of my adolescence. IDA has created who I am.”
For players considering a similar path, his advice is simple.
“I would tell players to come to IDA if they think they have what it takes to make it to the next level. IDA worries about its players and they are always willing to provide opportunities for those that work hard.”
At IDA, stories like Ruben’s are exactly why the pathway exists.
To help ambitious players step outside their comfort zones, develop in elite environments, gain international exposure, and pursue opportunities that can change their future.
From Puerto Rico to Valencia.
From Valencia to Boston.
Ruben Rosado’s journey is proof that when talent meets the right environment, incredible opportunities can follow.
Applications remain open for IDA Residency Programs for the 2026/27 season, helping ambitious players from around the world develop their game, gain exposure, and pursue pathways to college soccer, professional football, and international education.
Your story could be next. Register now.
Still have questions? Want to learn more? Fill out the form below to connect with an IDA representative. We look forward to hearing from you!