San Diego Premier Training Embarks on a Transformative Summer at IDA Valencia

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.