The Soccer Institute at Montverde Academy will manage and operate Orlando City's Development Academy program in the U-15, U-17 and U-19 boys age groups.
Orlando City players will gain
access to SIMA’s on-site residency programs for student-athletes and use its academic programs. The Lions' girls teams and the boys U-12 through U-14 groups will remain the same and continue to
use Sylvan Lake Park facilities in Sanford.
“This is an entirely new strategy designed to increase and grow the overall investment in our Development Academy, while offering our
younger players the best development opportunities,” Orlando City CEO
Alex Leitao said. “SIMA is an accomplished program with a consistent track record of producing top young
talents and exceptional young adults.”
Montverde is well known for its basketball program. Its soccer program has sent three players directly to MLS clubs: Cameroonians
Hassan Ndam (New York Red Bulls) and
Monday Etim (LAFC) and Brazilian
Matheus Silva (formerly San Jose Earthquakes). Other players have signed with clubs across Europe.
Orlando City first-team assistant coach and academy technical director
Bobby Murphy will work with SIMA director
Mike Potempa.
“Our residential capabilities," said
Potempa, "will allow us to implement a domestic scouting network to attract the best youth talents throughout the U.S. for a world-class education in the classroom and superior training environment
with our technical staff on the field. I believe this is the ideal model of youth soccer development necessary to make a major global impact.”