Virginia Tech Head Coach Mike Brizendine Visits IDA Valencia

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.