San Diego FC’s Right to Dream Academy officially opens

San Diego FC has officially opened its much-anticipated Right to Dream Academy, marking an exciting development in youth soccer in North America. This innovative residential program, part of the global Right to Dream network, aims to cultivate young talent by offering both world-class soccer training and comprehensive education. Situated on Sycuan tribal land in El Cajon, California, the academy is poised to have a lasting impact on youth soccer in the region and beyond.

### A Groundbreaking Investment in Youth Development

The opening of the San Diego FC Academy is a significant milestone not only for the franchise but also for the entire landscape of youth soccer in the United States and Mexico. The academy will operate under Right to Dream’s proven development model, which emphasizes character building alongside soccer training. This aligns with the broader goal of addressing the disparity between talent and opportunity, particularly in underserved areas.

Each student-athlete enrolled at the academy will receive a full five-year scholarship, regardless of their performance on the soccer field. This unique feature is unprecedented in North America and Major League Soccer (MLS), reflecting a deep commitment to inclusive talent development. As Sir Mohamed Mansour, the chairman of San Diego FC and Right to Dream, articulated, “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.” This philosophy stands at the core of the academy’s mission, aiming to help young individuals discover their potential and pursue fulfilling lives both on and off the pitch.

### State-of-the-Art Facility and Cutting-Edge Training

The academy is located on a sprawling 28-acre site that also houses the Sharp Healthcare Performance Center, where the San Diego FC first team trains. The facility is designed to not only support soccer training but also to foster education and character development. The design encourages interactions between academy players, coaches, and professional athletes, thus creating an environment ripe for development.

### A Commitment to Integration and Diverse Talent

The academy’s inaugural roster, which consists of 17 student-athletes on the U-13 team, includes players primarily from San Diego and Tijuana, as well as a select few from open MLS territories. This focus on developing local talent from both sides of the border reflects the academy’s commitment to community building and the cross-border exchange of skills and experiences. The goal is to expand to additional age groups and girls’ teams in future years, ensuring a holistic approach to youth development.

### Competitive Landscape in MLS NEXT

The San Diego FC Academy is set to compete in MLS NEXT, starting with the 2025-26 season. This platform offers the young athletes the chance to participate in a structured and competitive environment, providing them with invaluable experience as they transition into professional soccer. With the backing of Right to Dream’s successful academies in Ghana, Denmark, and Egypt—where notable players like Mohammed Kudus and Simon Adingra have emerged—the San Diego FC Academy is well-positioned to cultivate the next generation of soccer stars.

### Community and Character Building

Tom Penn, the CEO of San Diego FC, stated that the academy represents much more than just soccer; it’s a commitment to nurturing student-athletes and providing them with the opportunities to excel. “Today is about hope and promise. Today is about talent, character, and purpose,” he remarked during the opening. This ethos highlights the academy’s dedication to developing well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The emphasis on character development is essential, as players are not only being trained in soccer but also empowered to be leaders and role models within their communities. The academy aims to inspire future generations, thereby creating a positive ripple effect that extends beyond the soccer field.

### Insights from Soccer Figures

Renowned soccer player and San Diego FC partner Juan Mata expressed his enthusiasm for the academy, noting its importance in a growing league like MLS. He highlighted the potential for the academy to benefit not just the players but also the local community. The efforts surrounding the development of the academy are indicative of a broader commitment to enriching the soccer fabric within San Diego.

### The Light at the End of the Tunnel

The opening of the San Diego FC Right to Dream Academy is a comprehensive effort to blend sport with education and personal growth. It serves as a model for how soccer academies can contribute to community development and youth empowerment. As the program unfolds, its success will likely serve as a benchmark for other similar initiatives across North America and beyond.

With the innovative structure and commitment to inclusivity, the San Diego FC Academy is set to shape the identity of both the club and the community for decades to come. The vision outlined by Sir Mohamed Mansour, Tom Penn, and their team indicates a bright future not only for the academy but for the interconnected fabric of soccer at all levels in the region.

### Conclusion

In summary, the opening of the San Diego FC Right to Dream Academy represents a significant leap forward in youth soccer development. With a focus on inclusivity, character building, and educational opportunities, the academy is uniquely positioned to make a lasting impact. Its integration of state-of-the-art facilities, experienced professionals, and a commitment to community engagement suggests that it will be a transformative experience for the student-athletes involved. As it prepares to officially compete in MLS NEXT, the academy stands as a beacon of hope and promise for the future of young soccer players in San Diego and beyond.

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