Soccer Academy began in 1981 by its founder John Ellis, in Northern Virginia with a vision to provide opportunities for young players to play, learn and enjoy soccer. John was truly a visionary of the time, designing and implementing programs that still develop players and coaches to this day. John has been inducted into the VYSA Hall of fame and recognized by NSCAA with a lifetime achievement award. John now resides in Florida, but still shares his passion for the game with those around him.

Today, Soccer Academy’s programs reach out to some 5,000 players each year. From four-year olds just learning the game, to 14-year-olds dreaming of playing for the U.S. National Team, to 18-year olds preparing for a college career, players of all abilities can benefit from a Soccer Academy program.

Many coaches have also benefited from Soccer Academy, countless members of staff have started their coaching careers, in the ranks of Soccer Academy, April Hienrichs & Jill Ellis are currently full time staff with US Soccer in roles influencing the direction of girls youth soccer in this country. Mark Godwin, Dean McAlpin, Rob Olson, Steve Lovgran, David Yates, Barry Hill, Myron King and others are all currently working as Directors of coaching in State Associations or clubs sharing the Soccer Academy philosophy and vision with its members. Many others, Julie Shackford, Ron Raab, Jay Entlich, Darren Ambrose, Katherine Mertz, Sue Vodicka, Linda Hamilton are all currently Head Coaches at various Colleges and Universities throughout the country.

Soccer Academy also has gained a strong reputation as a reputable resource for club and league administration and development. Over the years, Soccer Academy has consulted with dozens of clubs, advising them on how to implement player and coach development programs, how to run tournaments, how manage growth and mergers.

As Soccer Academy moves into its 32nd continuous year of providing soccer education we still hold onto the belief that “Winning is to Learn”