A team from 7 Elite Academy in Salt Lake City has returned from a “life-changing” trip to France, where they trained with some of the best youth soccer players in Europe.
The 7 Elite Academy 2009 Boys ‘Nemeziz’ team spent ten days at the internationally renowned RC Vichy Soccer Institute as part of the academy’s Player Pathway youth development program.
They trained and played games alongside teams from France’s top-flight Ligue One and toured nearby cities and universities, where they met recruiters and college scouts.
Gabriel Ayala, Coach of 7 Elite Academy 2009B Nemeziz, led the trip and was delighted with the experience his players enjoyed.
He said: “This tour was a life-changing opportunity for these players, who saw how they can develop a career in soccer, while enjoying a first-class education in Europe.
“The facilities were second to none and showed how players at all levels can develop their potential and with the correct guidance, achieve their ambitions in all areas of life.
“RC Vichy is known as one of the finest youth soccer institutions in the world and it is clear to see why they have developed to many fine players for professional leagues across Europe.
“We also trained with 7 Elite Academy coach Jean Claude Gay, who is currently in France and is helping to develop understanding of how 7 Elite Academy helps players in all areas of their lives.
“The people in Vichy were absolutely lovely and gave us a fantastic welcome. They held a civic reception at Vichy Town Hall, which is something none of us will ever forget.”
The 7 Elite Academy Player Pathway is a proven route into college scholarships, professional academies and contracts with top-flight soccer clubs in Europe.
By bringing his team to Europe, Gabriel continued series of world-class opportunities for players that includes tours of the UK, Australia and meetings with Premier League clubs.
He added: “My players are at the stage of their lives where the next choices in terms of college and professional soccer are becoming increasingly important.
“This trip has helped them to make key decisions that will shape their futures in soccer, but also education and elsewhere in their communities. It was so exciting for them.
“The players designed and staged a series of fundraising initiatives to pay for the trip, which in itself was important lesson they’ll carry with them for the long term.
“7 Elite Academy is at the forefront of creating these opportunities and I am so proud to be part of that. We are already looking at further trips to Europe for these players in the next few years.”
7 Elite Academy administers and coaches teams for thousands of players across the world, in the United States, the United Kingdom and in East Africa.
