LOS ANGELES — A little over a year ago, the LAFC Academy’s UCLA friendly tournament was a small, quiet affair. Only two teams made the trek to Westwood, Calif. — the Xolos of Liga MX and the MLS’ San Jose Earthquakes — and the weekend played out quickly.
The lack of attendance, however, wasn’t enough to concern Tony Vigil, manager of the academy. He knew that within the next year, the reputation of the club and its academy would soar. Next year, things would be bigger, better and more competitive, he thought.
And at the conclusion of this year’s tournament, which hosted six academies and a well-respected youth club, it was clear his vision proved true.
With competition against academies from Real Salt Lake, Sporting KC and Atlanta United, along with Liga MX competitors in Tigres and Atlas, LAFC’s club took away valuable experiences in every age group.
“It allows us to widen the competitive perspective for all of our players and staff and sharpens our ability to evaluate our work thus far at the club,” Vigil said. “The focus on that professional environment really trickled down to the younger age groups. I think we actually exceeded expectations. … It gives our players a unique challenge that will complement the next 10 months of the [Developmental Academy] season.”
The LAFC Academy fielded U12, U13 and U15 teams for the tournament, posting dominant results across age groups. The club took away U15 victories over both of the Liga MX challengers, along with a 3-0 win over the U13 side from Sporting KC. Although the weekend provided an opportunity for the academy players to experience a higher level of competitive play, Vigil said it was also an important teaching moment for the young athletes to learn how to act as professionals in the business.
“I think all of the visiting clubs, especially the MLS and Liga MX sides, were very pleased with the level of professionalism we displayed during the weekend,” Vigil said. “We were able to play against top competition, which is an important piece of developing players for us. I think we took some important steps with the event this year that will allow us to continue to effectively grow our Academy.”
After a strong showing from the U13 team at the U13 CONCACAF Champions League tournament — where the squad took home the trophy with a 2-0 win over Mexico’s Tampico — the LAFC Academy is feeling rightfully bolstered in the continued development of the club’s future.
The youth teams will return to the field for a rivalry match against the LA Galaxy Academy Sept. 15.