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MLS NEXT Pro Jacksonville Armada FC

Jacksonville Armada FC to Operate MLS NEXT Academy

April 23, 2024 - MLS NEXT Pro (MLS NEXT Pro)
Jacksonville Armada FC News Release


JACKSONVILLE, FL - In a pioneering move for the future of soccer in Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Armada FC has announced a strategic partnership with Major League Soccer and Jacksonville FC (JFC) to fund and operate the U16, U17, and U19 MLS NEXT teams. This collaborative effort marks a significant step and financial commitment by Owner, Robert Palmer to forward the professional development of soccer talent in the region, aligning with the Armada's vision as they prepare to enter MLS NEXT Pro.

Under this partnership, the U16, U17, and U19 MLS NEXT teams previously operated by Jacksonville FC will now proudly bear the Jacksonville Armada FC name, reflecting a unified approach to nurturing elite talent and building a strong soccer culture in Jacksonville. The move signifies a shared commitment between all organizations under the Major League Soccer umbrella to elevate the standard of player development in the community, across the professional pathway.

Speaking about the partnership, Jacksonville Armada FC President, Nathan Walter stated, "We are thrilled to embark on this collaborative journey with MLS NEXT. This partnership represents our Owner's dedication to investing in the future of soccer in Jacksonville and providing aspiring professional players with the resources and support they need to excel in the sport. By joining forces, we aim to create a seamless pathway for talented players to progress from the youth ranks all the way to the professional level."

Executive Director of JFC, Pat Cannon, added "Jacksonville FC is proud to announce a partnership with Jacksonville Armada with our current MLS NEXT Boys Program. This groundbreaking initiative will allow access to a professional Youth Academy. This partnership promises to unlock unparalleled opportunities, shaping the future of soccer in our community. Both our organizations have an aligned vision under the Major League Soccer ecosystem for this to provide both professional and college pathways for our players."

Jacksonville Armada FC has appointed Tommy Krizanovic as MLS NEXT Pro Academy Director, in addition to his role as NPSL U23 Head Coach. Krizanovic will serve directly as the U16 and U17 MLS NEXT head coach, while maintaining his current MLS NEXT Academy Director role with JFC. Elmar Bolowich also joins the Academy staff and will be working closely with all age groups, with a specific focus as the U19 MLS NEXT head coach.

The Armada will be hosting ID clinics on Wednesday, April 24th and Tuesday, April 30th. Academy players will be evaluated and selected on the core Armada foundations to thrive within the Academy. These exclusive clinics will provide a tailored experience, offering participants the opportunity to showcase their abilities to our sporting staff and vie for coveted positions within the Jacksonville Armada FC MLS NEXT Pro Academy.

The Jacksonville Armada FC MLS NEXT Pro Academy is set to compete in MLS NEXT this coming season, beginning in August 2024. MLS NEXT membership features over 140 clubs across the U.S. and Canada, including all 29 MLS academies. MLS NEXT serves as the most elite platform for youth player development in North America, whose players make up most of the United States and Canadian youth national teams. Players competing in MLS NEXT receive the best training and coaching as they prepare for their futures, both in soccer and in life.

"Jacksonville Armada FC continues to prioritize their community, and this is another positive step in the club's journey," said Ali Curtis, SVP of Competition & Operations, MLS NEXT Pro. "Players in the Jacksonville area will have the opportunity to achieve their full potential, both on and off the field."

The transition from Jacksonville FC who will still operate the MLS NEXT Academy at U13, U14, and U15 to a funded program under the Jacksonville Armada FC at U16, U17 and U19 underscores a shared commitment to excellence and innovation in soccer development. As both organizations look ahead to a bright future in MLS NEXT Pro and beyond.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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