Borussia Mönchengladbach announces partnership with National Soccer Academy.

International Soccer Academy and Germany’s Borussia Mönchengladbach Team Up To Offer New Opportunities for Top Talent

NEW YORK, Jan. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — International Soccer Academy proudly announces an exclusive partnership with Bundesliga powerhouse, Borussia Mönchengladbach, one of Germany’s most successful football clubs. This collaboration creates a direct pathway for top U.S. youth players to develop their skills at the highest level, offering a rare opportunity to train and compete within the club’s renowned academy system. Together, International Soccer Academy & Borussia Mönchengladbach will scout elite youth soccer players to join their new Integrated U18 Academy team in Germany.

A Genuine Pathway to the Pros

For elite North American youth soccer players born in 2008 and 2009, this groundbreaking initiative provides a once-in-a-lifetime chance to live, train, and play in Germany for a full season—fully immersed in Borussia Mönchengladbach’s professional development environment. With a focus on high-performance training and top-tier competition, this program is designed to cultivate the next generation of soccer stars.

“This partnership with International Soccer Academy reflects Borussia Mönchengladbach’s holistic approach to youth development,” said Ronald Virkus, CEO Sport. “Living and training in Germany provides young players not only the opportunity to learn from one of the most competitive football cultures but also to grow personally by experiencing a different way of life. Our aim is to help these student athletes mature into independent, well-rounded individuals, ready to take on challenges both on and off the pitch.”

“We are thrilled to announce this significant partnership with Borussia Mönchengladbach — one of the top Bundesliga clubs in the world,” said Diane Scavuzzo, Co Founder of International Soccer Academy. “Together, we will open new pathways for talented American players. A team of twenty youth soccer players will train there starting in August. This is a commitment to nurturing the next generation of student athletes, providing them with the resources, training, and support they need to succeed at the highest level, whether that be as a college student or a professional soccer player.”

“American youth soccer players have great potential, and we’re eager to explore the opportunities they bring to our club,” said Mario Vossen, Head of Recruitment for Borussia Mönchengladbach.

“Partnering with Borussia Mönchengladbach is a testament to our dedication to creating unparalleled opportunities for North American talent. We will scout elite youth soccer players for the U18 Integrated Academy at MLS Academies, MLS Next and ECNL Boys showcases as well as top tournaments,” said Eddie Loewen, Co-Founder of International Soccer Academy. “This new residential academy team will develop players’ technical and tactical skills while equipping them to excel in the demands of German football and beyond — and providing an amazing life experience being immersed in a true professional football environment.”

The U18 academy team will have access to BORUSSIA-PARK’s modern infrastructure, including natural and artificial turf fields, specialized training facilities, and a cutting-edge Performance Center shared with the first team.

“Identifying and nurturing talent is at the heart of what we do at Borussia Mönchengladbach,” said Steffen Korell, Scouting Director for Borussia Mönchengladbach. “The U.S. is home to many promising talents, and we’re excited to identify players who fit our club’s philosophy and playing style.”

“International Soccer Academy started creating a bridge across the Atlantic for elite youth soccer players in 2020 and we are so proud to now be working with Borussia Mönchengladbach,” added Scavuzzo. “Together we are building a pathway for future stars to shine.”

“Germany is not just a leader in football development; it offers a lifestyle that emphasizes structure, community, and growth. This is about creating a pathway for athletic excellence while also preparing these young men for success in all aspects of life,” said Philipp Havermann, Head of Internationalization and Brand Partnerships for Borussia Mönchengladbach. “Through this partnership with International Soccer Academy, we aim to give young players from the United States the chance to live and train in this enriching environment.”

Patrick Weiser, Head of European Sports at International Soccer Academy, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Borussia Mönchengladbach is one of the most iconic clubs in German football, known for its rich history and commitment to excellence. For these young American players, the chance to train and compete in such an elite environment is an extraordinary opportunity that could shape their futures.”

Renowned for their “Foals Philosophy,” Borussia Mönchengladbach has a storied history of developing world-class players like Marc-André ter Stegen, Marco Reus, and Lothar Matthäus. This partnership marks an unprecedented opportunity for young American players to benefit from Germany’s rigorous football culture, technical training, and state-of-the-art facilities at BORUSSIA-PARK.

“International Soccer Academy has arranged for our players to go on more than 160 trials which has resulted in nearly 50 opportunities to play on European teams and stay abroad after our seasons,” said Loewen. “Every player comes to us with a big dream and we immerse them in a professional environment and work to develop their individual skills to the highest level. We are excited to see what the elite players at Gladbach will achieve.” Borussia Mönchengladbach is also known as Gladbach.

About International Soccer Academy

International Soccer Academy is dedicated to providing international opportunities to talented players. Launched in 2020, International Soccer Academy also works with FC Bayern Munich, one of the biggest soccer clubs in world football as well as Hertha BSC in Berlin, and La Liga ‘s Cádiz CF and the Spanish club Algeciras CF. In addition, International Soccer Academy also has partnered with FC Schalke 04.

For more information about the International Soccer Academy and its programs, visit www.internationalsocceracademy.com or email isabela@internationalsocceracademy.com

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SOURCE International Soccer Academy

Close-up of a Hertha BSC soccer jersey with club and soccer academy logos.

Talente über den großen Teich

Aus Nordamerika nach Berlin: Bereits zum dritten Mal erhält eine Gruppe talentierter Nachwuchsfußballer im Rahmen der Kooperation unseres Hauptstadtclubs mit der International Soccer Academy die Gelegenheit, ihre Fähigkeiten weiter auszubauen. Für die 22 Jungs aus den USA und Kanada heißt es dann neun Monate lang und sechs Tage die Woche: Trainieren, spielen, besser werden! „Wir freuen uns sehr, im Rahmen unserer Zusammenarbeit mit der International Soccer Academy diese talentierten Jungs bei Hertha BSC willkommen zu heißen“, unterstreicht unser stellvertretender Akademieleiter Sasan Gouhari und verdeutlicht den Benefit für beide Seiten: „Die Jungs können sich hier zeigen. Zudem haben sie die Chance, inhaltlich sehr viel zu lernen und dabei die gleiche Ausbildungsphilosophie zu genießen, die auch unsere Akademie-Teams genießen!“

A collage of various American TV news channel logos.

International Soccer Academy’s Season Kickoff News Picked Up By 460 Media Channels

NEW YORKSept. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — International Soccer Academy announces the successful launch of its 2024/25 season with four elite soccer programs in Europe. Players from the USACanada, and Australia arrived in Spain and Germany to join the prestigious clubs FC BayernHertha BSCCádiz CF, and Algeciras CF. These elite soccer players train extensively under the guidance of some of Europe’s most renowned coaches, setting the stage for a season filled with growth, competition and opportunity.

International Soccer Academy co-founder Eddie Loewen expressed his excitement about this season, “This year, we are thrilled to offer even more opportunities for young soccer players to experience the best European training environments.”

The players train 20+ hours weekly with their UEFA PRO Licensed Head coaches Klaus Augenthaler at FC Bayern, Patrick Weiser at Hertha BSC, Pablo Sánchez at Cádiz CF, as well as UEFA A Licensed coach José Galán at Algeciras CF.

Youth soccer team posing with mascot and International Soccer Academy banner.

International Soccer Academy’s Youth Soccer Players Kick Off Season in Europe

NEW YORKSept. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — International Soccer Academy announces the successful launch of its 2024/25 season with four elite soccer programs in Europe. Players from the USACanada, and Australia arrived in Spain and Germany to join the prestigious clubs FC BayernHertha BSCCádiz CF, and Algeciras CF. These elite soccer players train extensively under the guidance of some of Europe’s most renowned coaches, setting the stage for a season filled with growth, competition and opportunity.

International Soccer Academy co-founder Eddie Loewen expressed his excitement about this season, “This year, we are thrilled to offer even more opportunities for young soccer players to experience the best European training environments.”

The players train 20+ hours weekly with their UEFA PRO Licensed Head coaches Klaus Augenthaler at FC Bayern, Patrick Weiser at Hertha BSC, Pablo Sánchez at Cádiz CF, as well as UEFA A Licensed coach José Galán at Algeciras CF.

Three young soccer players in action during a game.

Achieving athletic and academic excellence with ASU Prep Global

ASU Prep students are doing amazing things. It’s why we help them balance their studies with their passions through flexible schedules and personalized support.

This dedication to guiding students toward their goals is evident in ASU Prep Global Academy’s partnership with International Soccer Academy, which allows elite youth soccer players to study abroad while pursuing their athletic ambitions.

Meet a few of these dedicated student-athletes achieving excellence both on and off the field, thanks to the unique opportunities offered by ASU Prep Global Academy.

Promotional poster for FC Bayern Global Academy's International Academy Cup, May 8-12, 2024.

International Soccer Academy Announces a New Youth Soccer Tournament, the International Academy Cup, at FC Bayern in Munich

The International Academy Cup will be held from May 8th – 12th 2024, and features youth soccer U17/18 teams from FC Schalke 04Hertha BSC, Cadiz CF and the host club, FC Bayern at Säbener Strasse where the FC Bayern’s professional team trains.

NEW YORKApril 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — International Soccer Academy proudly announces the International Academy Cup, hosted by FC Bayern in Munich. The new youth soccer tournament will be held from May 8 to the 12, 2024 and will feature FC Bayern’s Global Academy and integrated academy U17/U18 teams from FC Schalke 04, Hertha BSC, and Cadiz CF. The soccer matches will be held at the FC Bayern Campus as well as Säbener Strasse, where FC Bayern’s professional team trains.

Schalke 04 soccer players stand with backs turned, displaying their jerseys.

Contract expires: Cooperation with International Soccer Academy ends in summer

The three-year contract between the International Soccer Academy and Knappenschmiede expires in the summer of 2024. Since the 2021/2022 season, FC Schalke 04 has hosted an American U18 team every year.

Promotional poster for FC Bayern Global Academy's International Academy Cup, May 8-12, 2024.

FC Bayern und die International Soccer Academy veranstalten den ersten Internationalen Akademiepokal in Deutschland

Author:

FC Bayern und die International Soccer Academy freuen sich, den ersten International Academy Cup anzukündigen, der von FC Bayern in München ausgerichtet werden wird. Dieses aufregende Jugendfußballturnier findet vom 8. bis 12. Mai 2024 statt und wird U17/U18-Teams von FC Bayern, FC Schalke 04, Hertha BSC und Cadiz CF umfassen. Die Spiele werden auf dem emblematischen FC Bayern Campus und an der Säbener Straße ausgetragen, wo die Profimannschaft von FC Bayern trainiert.

Promotional banner for FC Bayern Global Academy's "A Day in the Life" video.

FC Bayern Global Academy – A Day in the Life

The daily routine offers the players the opportunity to fully focus on their tasks and duties both on and off the pitch. In addition to the daily training and athletics sessions, the players spend their afternoons taking German or online lessons. In addition to academic tuition, cultural exchange is also important to us so they can familiarise themselves even more with the DNA of FC Bayern and its identity. A balanced diet is also essential for good regeneration after the sessions. The players are provided with selected meals three times a day to promote rapid regeneration. In addition, the talents have the opportunity to prepare meals in their own kitchen at any time.

Soccer player in a yellow Cádiz CF jersey pointing at the club logo.

International Soccer Academy’s American Player Signs Contract to Play in Spain For LA LIGA’s Cádiz CF

NEW YORK, March 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Rising American soccer star Francis Castillo has signed with the La Liga club Cádiz CF in Spain. Pennsylvania-born, 18-year-old student athlete Castillo played in Germany on the International Soccer Academy Integrated U18 team at FC Schalke 04 last fall.

International Soccer Academy’s Francis Castillo says, “It is truly a privilege to represent a historic club like Cádiz CF. It’s always been a dream and it’s finally happening.”

Francis Castillo says, “It is truly a privilege to represent a historic club like Cádiz CF. I will do everything in my power to help the Cádiz CF U23s do well this upcoming season. Signing with this La Liga club is amazing and I really can’t believe I will be playing in Europe now. It doesn’t feel real but it’s always been a dream and it’s finally happening.”

“Cádiz CF bets on Francis Castillo, a player from the prestigious International Soccer Academy with significant potential,” says José Luis Donoso, Cádiz CF’s Chief Operating Officer. “We believe he can continue to demonstrate his worth and reflect it in positive results.

Castillo was in Nicaragua in February representing the Nicaraguan National Team in the 2024 Concacaf Men’s U-20 Championship Qualifiers, and was the top goal scorer, scoring a total of five goals and earning two assists during the tournament.

“It was a great honor to be captain of the U20 Nicaragua national team the team for the entire CONCACAF U20 Qualifiers,” says Castillo. “I felt very honored and privileged to represent Nicaragua and my heritage.”

Castillo’s journey to playing professional football in Europe began in the USA when first started to walk on the sideline of his father’s soccer games.

As a youth soccer player, he competed for the MLS Next club, FC Delco, and in 2022, he joined MLS’ Philadelphia Union Academy before moving to Europe to develop his skills and continuing his high school education online. Castillo is on track to graduate this spring.

International Soccer Academy has set up 96 trials over the last 3 years for talented American and Canadian youth soccer players.

Known for his strength, determination, and winning mindset, Castillo, nicknamed “El Toro” by his teammates, continues to impress on and off the field. Castillo trained under the guidance of the experienced coaches of International Soccer Academy’s Bundesliga partner, FC Schalke 04, including former Bundesliga player turned UEFA Pro Licensed coach Patrick Weiser. Weiser was impressed with Castillo from the beginning and arranged several trials. “Francis is a player with exceptional skills that can make a difference in the game. He has an excellent attitude, and a lot of potential for more development,” says Weiser.

International Soccer Academy Co-Founder Eddie Loewen first identified Castillo as a player to watch when the youth soccer player was scouted for Global Soccer Development’s (GSD) summer program for youth soccer players to train and play against pro academies in Europe.

Loewen says, ‘Francis Castillo is a player with special weapons and a winning mentality that every coach loves to have in their team.”

“When I first saw Francis play for the MLS Next club Delco FC, I immediately recognized his ability to make many high-tempo runs for his team in the offense and defense and his great ability to shoot with left and right with a lot of power and accuracy. Francis is not even at 50% of his max potential as a player and with the right development and guidance he will be a force to be reckoned with on the field,” adds Loewen.

“I just want to congratulate Francis Castillo for signing with Cádiz CF,” says Diane Scavuzzo, Co-Founder of International Soccer Academy. “We are absolutely thrilled that Cádiz CF has signed him and look forward to his team’s success. We are proud to have helped over twenty contracts be signed by players in Europe since we launched in 2020.”

“This season, more than 80 American youth soccer players are training in our elite residential Academy programs at Cádiz CF, Hertha BSC, FC Schalke 04 and FC Bayern,” adds Scavuzzo.

Interested American and Canadian youth soccer players born from 2003 to 2009 can apply by sending a link with their game highlights for the European scouts to review on the International Soccer Academy’s official website. www.internationalsocceracademy.com

Contact:

Diane Scavuzzo
Co-Founder International Soccer Academy
diane@InternationalSoccerAcademy.com

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