San Diego FC is setting a new standard in U.S. soccer development with its groundbreaking Right to Dream Academy. As the first of its kind in MLS history, this academy offers young players the opportunity of a lifetime. Located in El Cajon on the Sycuan Reservation, the 28-acre campus features top-tier facilities and a fully integrated soccer and education program. For kids like Enoc Dina, who is trying out for the academy, the chance to pursue a professional soccer career is now closer than ever.
“I just have to go out there, work hard, and try my best,” said Dina, reflecting the enthusiasm of the many hopefuls vying for a spot.
Joaquin Escoto, the academy’s executive vice president, believes the initiative will revolutionize soccer in the U.S. “You have a full school, middle school, high school on campus,” he said. “This is where the MLS team and academy come together.”
San Diego FC kicks off first-ever MLS academy with a vision for the future
Right to Dream’s model focuses on residential schooling, where students live on-site, attend classes, and train professionally. The 50,000-square-foot performance center boasts five full-sized soccer fields, a dining facility, and shared spaces where academy students and first-team players, like star winger Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, can connect.
The academy’s biggest advantage? It’s free. “No student or player will ever pay a dollar,” Escoto added, emphasizing the inclusivity of the program.
Former MLS player Gabriel Farfán, a native of Chula Vista, is now a talent scout for the academy. He recalls how opportunities like this were scarce when he was a young player. “It’s amazing to think kids won’t have to leave their hometown now to chase their dreams,” he said.
What’s more, SDFC’s academy is the first in MLS allowed to recruit players from Mexico, adding an international edge to its talent pool.
