FC Copa Academy is celebrating a landmark achievement in our inaugural year competing in the ECNL Regional League (RL) Northeast, with nine of our high school players being named to this year’s prestigious regional lists. This recognition not only speaks volumes about the talent and hard work of our players but also highlights the growing stature of FC Copa Academy in the elite youth soccer landscape.
A Season to Remember: The G06 and G07 Teams
Sienna Petro, Hailey Santiago, and Audra Toth were integral to the G06 ECNL RL team’s success this season. Sienna, a standout center midfielder, played a pivotal role in leading the team to an unbeaten season, building on last year’s triumph where they captured the USYS National Finals trophy. Sienna’s ability to control the midfield and contribute on both ends of the pitch made her a key player throughout the season. Hailey, playing up front, consistently found the back of the net, providing a crucial attacking threat with her speed and precision. Audra, our center back, anchored the defense with her strong tackles and intelligent positioning, helping to maintain the team’s solid defensive record. The collective efforts of these three players were vital in securing the team’s unbeaten run and earning them recognition on the ECNL RL Northeast team.
Similarly, the G07 ECNL RL team had a stellar season, with Adelina Galea, Taylor Green, Isabelle Melilli, and Sara Gold all playing crucial roles. Adelina, the team’s goalkeeper, was a rock between the posts, demonstrating sharp reflexes and composure under pressure as the team advanced through the regional playoffs unbeaten and reached the second round at nationals. Taylor, our forward, added creativity and dynamism to the attack, while Isabelle and Sara were instrumental in maintaining a strong midfield and defensive presence. Isabelle’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions, combined with Sara’s technical skills and vision in midfield, ensured the team’s balance and control throughout the season. The contributions of these players were key to the team’s success and their selection to the ECNL RL Northeast team is well-deserved.
Rising Stars: The G08 Team’s Growth and Achievement
Samantha Pax and Sanai Trotman from our G08 ECNL RL team have shown that persistence and hard work pay off. Both players were integral to the team’s evolution throughout the season. The G08 team, in their early stages, faced challenges as they adjusted to the high level of competition in the ECNL RL. However, under the guidance of Coach Massimo and through their own determination, the team steadily improved and began finding success towards the end of the season. Samantha, a center midfielder, was the engine that drove the team’s progression, showcasing her technical skills, vision, and work rate. Sanai, our forward, became the team’s offensive spearhead, using her speed, agility, and finishing ability to turn the tide in crucial matches. Their development and eventual success are a testament to their hard work and the team’s collective effort. Being named to the ECNL RL Northeast team is a significant milestone in their young careers, and it reflects their potential to achieve even greater heights in the future.
The Significance of the ECNL RL
The ECNL Regional League is not just another competition—it’s a proving ground for the nation’s top youth soccer talent. Known for its rigorous competition, the ECNL RL provides a platform where players can measure themselves against the best in their region and gain exposure to college scouts. In fact, the league’s showcases and national events are attended by a vast number of college recruiters, making it one of the most influential pathways for young players aspiring to play collegiate soccer. Over 90% of players in the ECNL and ECNL RL go on to play at the collegiate level, with many also advancing to professional and national team opportunities.
For FC Copa Academy, having nine players recognized in the ECNL RL Northeast lists is a monumental achievement that underscores the quality of our program. It is a testament to the hard work of our players, the dedication of our coaches, and the supportive environment fostered by the academy. As we continue to compete at this elite level, we are confident that more of our players will follow in the footsteps of Sienna, Hailey, Audra, Adelina, Taylor, Isabelle, Sarah, Samantha, and Sanai, making their mark in the ECNL RL and beyond.
We are immensely proud of our players and look forward to what the future holds for them as they continue to develop and excel in their soccer careers.
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