Academy Update: Future Stars Excited Ahead of MLS Season

This Sunday, a game 13 months in the making will finally take place in South Florida; the Inter Miami CF First Team will face LA Galaxy at the newly named DRV PNK Stadium at 3 p.m. ET. The game will kick off the second season of Inter Miami fútbol after its inaugural MLS season in 2020. The game will look to satisfy eager fans from across South Florida and treat them to an unforgettable experience. For the Club’s young prospects, however, the game will carry an extra special meaning for Inter Miami CF’s young prospects. Of course, we’re talking about our Academy presented by Baptist Health.        

The Club’s youth understands the concept that with hard work and determination, they could very well be wearing those First Team jerseys to kick off the season one day.    

This “freedom to dream” remains one of Inter Miami CF’s pillars. The team aspires to develop local talent in an effort to give them an opportunity to reach the professional level in their home city. Inter Miami has already demonstrated its commitment with the Homegrown signings of Academy prospects Edison Azcona, Ian Fray, and Felipe Valencia.        

The organization believes strongly in leading by example. By hosting training for the First Team and Academy at the Inter Miami CF Training Center, even our youngest athletes can get a chance to watch and learn those playing high caliber soccer.        

For U-15 player Lucas DePaula, the close proximity to the First Team serves to inspire. 

“My experience watching the First Team get ready for their second season is inspiring. Watching them compete at the highest level inspires me to work hard and achieve my dream of playing there with them one day,” said DePaula.

DePaula also expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing his former Academy peers take the field for Inter Miami.

“Watching my peers playing at the highest level is truly exciting. I am so happy for them! They have shown a good example for the younger age groups to grow and hopefully play with them in the near future.”

U-13 player Marco Cantalapiedra, meanwhile, firmly believes in Inter Miami CF’s mission to develop homegrown talent. 

“It shows me that if I keep on working hard, I am on the right path to make it to the First Team. I always try to remember that [our current homegrown signings] were also in my position a couple years ago, so it’s possible to achieve my dreams, too,” said Cantalapiedra    .

“I am so excited to watch the First Team play, especially after watching them play live at training. I really want to watch them so I can continue to learn from them.”

As our community and athletes prepare for this weekend’s game, we look forward to seeing the return to action for the First Team; Sunday’s match will air live at 3 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN Deportes.

You can follow our academy’s journey online by following our Twitter account @InterMiamiAcad or via Instagram @InterMiamiCF_Academy.