Over at the Inter Miami CF Academy presented by Baptist Health, a busy week saw several milestones reached: Two Academy teams faced MLS competition, two players were named Academy Players of the Month and an Academy graduate made his home debut for the First Team.
Results vs. Charlotte
Last weekend, the Academy’s U-14 and U-17 teams took on MLS competitor Charlotte FC. The U-14s put on a strong attacking display, scoring three goals which came from three different players in a 3-3 draw. The team’s goal scorers in the match were J. Ellis, D. Mello and M. Saja.
The U-17 team, meanwhile, showed their defensive strength, holding off their opponent's attack and keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 win. Forward Bryan Destin scored the team’s goal in the match.
Academy Players of the Month
We also named our Players of the Month for April, an honor given to athletes who have shown hard work, determination, teamwork, and a winning mentality.
Left back Noah Allen was named Player of the Month for the older group, while Lucas Penche earned the honor for the younger group.
Allen is a U-17 player who currently features for Fort Lauderdale CF as an academy registered player in USL League One.
“I’m so grateful to play for this badge. I want to thank all the coaches for everything that they’ve done for me this season,” said Allen. “I’ve been here for two years and love this club so much!”
Penche, meanwhile, is a standout at the Academy U-12 level for the Club.
“I’m really proud of myself and I’m happy to get this award,” said Penche. “I’ve always been determined to work hard and I knew opportunities would come if I did.”
Azcona’s Home Debut
Former Academy standout Edison Azcona made his home debut with Inter Miami CF’s First Team last Sunday against Atlanta united FC. Azcona previously saw the pitch at the MLS level for the first time in the team’s away match against Nashville the week before, but playing in front of his home crowd was a special moment for the young winger.
Just days before his home debut, Edison spoke about what it would mean to him to play in front of his home crowd.
“It would mean a lot to me to play at home, for my family to be able to see me play for the First Team in person,” said Azcona. “They’ve always supported me, and I want to be able to repay them.”
You can follow our Academy’s journey online by following our Twitter account @InterMiamiAcad or via Instagram @InterMiamiCF_Academy.
