USL1 Central Valley Fuego FC

Central Valley Fuego FC Elevates Academy to Full-Time Status & Announces Dates for Tryouts

January 10, 2024 - United Soccer League One (USL1)
Central Valley Fuego FC News Release


FRESNO, CA - Central Valley Fuego FC proudly announces the transition of its esteemed Fuego FC Academy from a hybrid model to a full-time academy team, marking a pivotal moment in youth soccer development. This strategic move signifies a commitment to nurture and elevate emerging talent within a professional framework.

The Academy's shift to full-time status embodies a significant stride in fostering young athletes' growth. Fully funded, excluding travel expenses, this transformation underscores our dedication to removing the pay-to-play barriers to better provide a comprehensive platform for skill cultivation and competitive exposure. Explore the comprehensive inclusion details HERE.

Fuego FC Academy tryouts will be held on Sunday, March 3, at the Fuego FC Training Facility

Location: 5397 E Olive Ave, Fresno, CA 93727, USA

Check-In: 9:30 AM

Session 1: 10 AM - 12 PM

Session 2: 2 PM - 4 PM

The finalized squad will be announced soon after the tryouts, and Academy training will promptly follow thereafter.

As a proud member of the United Soccer League (USL), Central Valley Fuego FC now positions its Academy team within the prestigious USL Academy (USLA). This elite platform serves as a bastion for some of the nation's most prodigious talents, offering unparalleled opportunities for players to showcase their skills at the highest echelons of youth soccer.

Functioning as a reserve team for Fuego FC's primary squad, the Academy Team plays a crucial role in providing opportunities for players seeking additional game time. Notably, this transition doesn't compromise a player's collegiate eligibility, fostering a balanced pathway for the Academy's aspirants.

The Academy Structure marks a stark contrast to the pay-to-play structure, which requires financial investments for participation in elite youth programs, academies, and even grassroots levels, which inherently limits access to the sport. This exclusionary approach often sidelines talented individuals from underprivileged backgrounds who may lack the financial means to participate. As a result, the sport misses out on diverse talent pools, hindering its growth potential and diminishing the richness of soccer's cultural tapestry.

Fuego FC advocates for a paradigm shift towards more inclusive and accessible youth development programs. By dismantling the financial barriers that impede aspiring players, we can harness soccer's power to transcend social and economic boundaries, fostering a more diverse and competitive landscape.

The Fuego FC Academy's purpose extends beyond providing an elite professional environment; it serves as a clear pathway for Central Valley-based youth players aspiring to reach the first team. Participating in the USL Academy NorCal and SoCal leagues, the team's schedule and structure mirror the professionalism of the primary squad, emphasizing rigorous training sessions and competitive gameplay.

This transition aligns with our commitment to nurturing talent at the foundational level. Qualified coaches possessing USSF/UEFA A & B Licenses lead the Academy, ensuring a holistic and top-tier development experience for the players.

Several Fuego FC USL Academy players have already benefited from training opportunities with the first team. As the highest tier of professional sports in the Central Valley, competing in the USL League One, Central Valley Fuego FC aims to identify and elevate talented youth players from the Academy, offering them the prospect of signing professional contracts.

The Fuego FC Academy mirrors the core values of our esteemed first team, striving to encapsulate the philosophy and standards set by our senior squad. By creating a seamless transition from foundational development to professional soccer, Central Valley Fuego FC is dedicated to fostering a generation of skilled and principled athletes.

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