The Montreal Impact announced the creation of its Pre-Academy program on December 20, bringing five new teams under the club’s umbrella: U8, U9, U10, U11 and U12, in addition to its existing structure of U13, U14, U16, U18, U23 and professional teams, bringing the total to 11 teams.
Pre-Academy activities are set to begin on April 14, 2014. To become one of the 80 players set to join one the club’s five new teams, registration can be done for tryout and detection sessions scheduled for February 22 and 23, 2014, at Stade Hebert in Saint-Leonard.
Here are a few comments from coaches and players about the club’s new program and what it means for local soccer.
Youssef Dahha, goalkeeper coach, pro team:
“The Pre-Academy will be a great opportunity for young players to develop all year long in a professional environment, with quality training facilities, equipment and a training program run by qualified coaches.”
Amine Meftouh, defender, Impact U23:
“At 8 years old, I was playing at the AA level once a week with a single game on the weekend. Here you can train all week under the tutelage of the Montreal Impact. I would have loved to have this opportunity at that age.”
Jack Stern, goalkeeper coach, Impact U16, U18 and U23:
“The Pre-Academy is an incredible addition for the Impact. The biggest Academies in Europe have teams from the U8-U11 levels. Young players will be able to learn the game and develop in a very special environment.”
Samuel Dufort, goalkeeper, Impact U23:
“This professional structure will be nothing but beneficial for soccer in Quebec, for young players and the club. This will create an even bigger relationship between young players and their pro team, starting at the age of 7. For the future of the club, the creation of the Pre-Academy is extraordinary.”
Zakaria Messoudi, midfielder, pro team and former Academy player:
“It’s important to get a good base and to progress quickly, with the right support, like in Europe where development is the best in the world.”
Wilfried Nancy, head coach, Impact U16:
“Three years after of the creation of the Academy, a Pre-Academy program will become reality. It’s a continual progression for the club and its structure. Young players go to the stadium to see the pro players, but now, they will be part of the very same club as their favourite players. It’s a pleasure for both them and us.”
