BVB International Academy - North America - NEWS , BVBIA

Arizona Technical Director Darrel Marcelle Called UP to U.S. Virgin Islands Women’s National Team Staff

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 19:51:12 +0000

Western Region leader selected for Concacaf World Cup Qualifying campaign

BVB International Academy North America is proud to announce that Darrel Marcelle, Technical Director of BVB International Academy Arizona and Western Region Coordinator, has been officially called to serve on the staff of the U.S. Virgin Islands Women's National Soccer Team for the upcoming Concacaf World Cup Qualifying preparation camp and matches.

This international appointment marks a significant milestone not only for Coach Darrel, but for the continued growth and credibility of the BVB International Academy network across North America.

Representing on the International Stage

As part of the April FIFA international window, Marcelle will be fully integrated into the national team environment, supporting technical preparation, training sessions, match planning, and overall team operations during a critical phase of World Cup qualification.

The team will compete in key fixtures on the road to the FIFA Women's World Cup, including:

April 10, 2026 – vs. Mexico (Mexico)

April 14, 2026 – vs. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

These matches represent an important step in the global qualification pathway and place Coach Darrel in a high-performance environment alongside international-level players and staff.

A Reflection of Leadership and Development

Coach Darrel has been a central figure within BVB International Academy Arizona and the broader Western Region, helping to implement and elevate the BVB methodology across multiple markets. His work spans player development, coach education, and building consistent, high-quality training environments aligned with the standards of Borussia Dortmund.

His selection to a national team staff is a direct reflection of:

His technical expertise and professionalism
His ability to operate within elite performance environments
His commitment to developing players and people at every level

Within BVB International Academy, his leadership has played a key role in shaping the pathway for both players and coaches.

More Than a Player Pathway

At BVB International Academy, development extends beyond the players on the field. This moment reinforces a broader truth about the system:

we are building pathways for coaches, leaders, and professionals within the game.

“Darrel’s call up is a powerful reflection of the standard we are building across BVB International Academy North America. states Dr. Douglas Payne, CEO of BVBIA North America. We are committed to developing not only top players, but top coaches who can operate and contribute at the highest levels of the game. To see one of our own step into a national team environment on the world stage is a proud moment for our entire network and a clear signal of what this pathway can produce.”

Coach Darrel’s call-up is a representation of the collective work being done across BVB International Academy North America. It demonstrates that the “BVB Way” translates beyond local training sessions and into the highest levels of the global game.

As he joins the U.S. Virgin Islands Women’s National Team for this important international window, he carries with him the identity, standards, and philosophy that define BVB International Academy.

BVB International Academy proudly supports Coach Darrel during this opportunity and looks forward to the continued impact he will bring back to the network.

Moments like this matter. They validate the work. They elevate the standard, and they show what is possible.

MEET THE BVBIA NORTH AMERICA TEAM

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:44:47 +0000

Leadership within the BVB International Academy is about more than titles or roles, it’s about connection, consistency, and a shared commitment to developing people through football. From Dortmund to North America, our leadership team works collaboratively to align vision with action, ensuring that the values, culture, and standards of Borussia Dortmund are lived out every day across our growing global network.

Dr. Douglas Payne
Chief Executive Officer | BVBIA North America

Dr Douglas Payne spent the first half of his career teaching in internal medicine residency programs. He has been on the faculty as professor of medicine at the University of California Davis and Texas Tech.

Over the last 15 years he has worked principally as a medical entrepreneur creating a medical platform that provides high quality patient care and better working conditions for doctors. Over the past five years he has transitioned his medical work to half-time to pursue work in the football world.

His love of football stems from a lifelong passion as a player and coach. He currently holds a UEFA B license and the Master in High Performance Football from the MBP School in Barcelona. He is a co-owner of the BVBIA Affiliate in El Paso, Texas.

Dru Wright

Chief Football Officer | BVBIA North America

Dru Wright, a Wake Forest University graduate with degrees in Communications, Sociology, and Sports Medicine, excelled as a Division 1 athlete in Soccer and Football. He went on to play professional soccer in Brazil’s second division before transitioning to coaching.

With over 20 years of experience in U.S. soccer as a player and coach, Dru holds a USSF National A license, Goalkeeping license, and USC Director of Coaching diploma. He has led player development programs for multiple professional-affiliated clubs, including serving as Director of Soccer Development for Liverpool FC International Academy before joining Borussia Dortmund (BVB) International Academy.

Since 2019, Dru has been Executive Technical Director for BVBIA North America, leading initiatives like the School of Excellence and College Athlete Placement (CAP) programs. He also fosters connections between BVB’s youth academy and first team, overseeing trips to Dortmund and organizing events such as Evonik camps, preseason tours, and legends visits.

Jason Brewer
Chief Communications Officer | BVBIA North America

Jason Brewer brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for soccer and community development to the field. As a former college soccer player at Midwestern State University, Jason not only honed his skills on the pitch but also developed a strong foundation in teamwork and leadership.

His career path has been distinguished by significant roles in community development and non-profit management, including serving as the Vice President for Community Development for the United Way and as the Executive Director for the Red Cross in West Texas and Southern New Mexico.

Jason's commitment to community service is matched by his passion for soccer as a tool for developing communities. He believes in the power of soccer to unite people, foster youth development, and create a positive impact on society.

As the Executive Director for BVB International Academy in El Paso Borderland, Jason continues to dedicate his efforts to nurturing young talent and spreading the love for soccer across the borderland region.

Hector A. Beltran

Vice President & General Legal Council | BVBIA North America

Hector A. Beltrán is the Vice President and co-owner of BVBIA – Borderland, LLC, and co-owner of Carreon & Beltrán, PLLC, a law firm he operates with his wife, Angelica B. Carreon-Beltrán. With more than 25 years of legal experience, both have been recognized by the El Paso legal community as Young Lawyer of the Year and Lawyer of the Year.

Mr. Beltrán specializes in legal counsel for emerging businesses, particularly in construction, transportation, logistics, and home health care. He also serves as President of Texas Law Focused Education, Inc., a nonprofit supporting U.S. citizenship education.

His soccer involvement began in 2011 as a volunteer coach, later serving as Regional Commissioner for AYSO El Paso and continuing as a referee and pro bono legal advisor to AYSO’s National Board. At BVBIA – Borderland, he provides legal and business guidance while coaching goalkeepers, Mini Bees, and Little Bees. He holds a USSF D License and multiple AYSO certifications.

Annika Theobald

Partnership Manager | Borussia Dortmund

Annika Theobald is a Partnership Manager within the Football Academy of Borussia Dortmund, where she coordinates all BVB International Academy North America projects and partnerships from Dortmund, Germany, serving as a key link between headquarters and academies across the region.

She also leads the girls’ and women’s football program within the BVB Football Academy globally, focused on creating meaningful opportunities and clear player pathways for female athletes. A former competitive player, Annika holds a UEFA B License, a BSc in Sports Science (Sports Management), and an MSc in Sports Tourism.

She is passionate about growing the global black and yellow community and sharing the values, culture, and spirit that unite the BVB family.

Vincent Sander
Partnership Manager | Borussia Dortmund

Vincent Sander is a Partnership Manager within the Football Academy of Borussia Dortmund, based in Dortmund, Germany. He has been with Borussia Dortmund for over three years, gaining experience across multiple departments within the Football Academy.

For the past two years, Vincent has served as the Partnership Manager for the BVB International Academy North America, where he supports and coordinates all related projects directly from Dortmund, helping strengthen the connection between BVB headquarters and the growing North American academy network.

Vincent holds a UEFA B License, a Bachelor of Arts in Sports Science with a focus on Management, and a Master’s degree in Management and Consulting in Sport. He is passionate about building strong transatlantic relationships and supporting the continued growth of the black and yellow BVB family across North America.

Standing with the Caribbean - One Team, One Family

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:26:17 +0000

Statement from BVB International Academy North America:

Our hearts are with all those affected by Hurricane Melissa across the Caribbean and Jamaica.

Many members of our BVB International Academy family, including coaches, players, and their loved ones, have deep roots in the region. During this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with our Caribbean brothers and sisters, and we are keeping everyone impacted in our thoughts and prayers.

The entire BVBIA network is united behind you. 💛🖤

#EchteLiebe #BorussiaUnites #BVBIAFamily #CaribbeanStrong

Field Notes: BVBIA Expands to the Caribbean

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:25:30 +0000

BVBIA Caribbean Launch | Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago | 25-27 July, 2025

From July 25–27, 2025, a team representing Borussia Dortmund and BVB International Academy North America traveled to Port of Spain, Trinidad, to officially announce the launch of BVBIA Caribbean, marking Borussia Dortmund’s first academy footprint in the Caribbean region.

The delegation included Florian Ingwersen from Borussia Dortmund, along with Douglas Payne (CEO), Dru Wright (Chief Football Officer), Hector A. Beltrán (Vice President & Chief Legal Counsel), and Jason Brewer (Chief Communications Officer) from BVBIA North America. Florian Ingwersen from Borussia Dortmund, along with Douglas Payne (CEO), Dru Wright (Chief Football Officer), Héctor Beltrán (Vice President & Chief Legal Counsel), and Jason Brewer (Chief Communications Officer) from BVBIA North America.

This milestone event introduced Cooper’s Coaching Academy as the first BVBIA partner location in Trinidad, officially bringing the Borussia Dortmund philosophy and development model to the islands.

Cooper’s Coaching Academy as the first BVBIA partner location in Trinidad, officially bringing the Borussia Dortmund philosophy and development model to the islands.

A Weekend of Milestones

On Saturday, the group hosted a press conference with major local media outlets, formally unveiling BVBIA Caribbean and inviting local players to participate in the upcoming BVBIA Caribbean Player ID Event and tournament series.Saturday, the group hosted a press conference with major local media outlets, formally unveiling BVBIA Caribbean and inviting local players to participate in the upcoming BVBIA Caribbean Player ID Event and tournament series.

On Sunday, the team joined a local youth tournament, featuring talented players and clubs from across Trinidad and Tobago. The event doubled as a talent identification showcase, giving young players the opportunity to display their skills and embody the spirit of “Echte Liebe” — true love for the game.Sunday, the team joined a local youth tournament, featuring talented players and clubs from across Trinidad and Tobago. The event doubled as a talent identification showcase, giving young players the opportunity to display their skills and embody the spirit of “Echte Liebe” — true love for the game.

“This launch marks a major step forward for our global academy network,” said Dru Wright, Chief Football Officer for BVBIA North America. “The energy and passion we experienced here in Trinidad prove that the Caribbean is ready to embrace the BVB Way — developing players who are technically excellent, tactically intelligent, and driven by heart.”

Building a Football Culture for the Future

The new academy will operate in partnership with Athletes and Fans Sports Village, a key local organization that will serve as the foundation for BVBIA’s community programs, player development initiatives, and family engagement efforts across the Caribbean.Athletes and Fans Sports Village, a key local organization that will serve as the foundation for BVBIA’s community programs, player development initiatives, and family engagement efforts across the Caribbean.

“We are proud to partner with BVBIA to create something truly special for our youth,” said Andre Lawrence, Director of Athletes and Fans Sports Village. “This collaboration brings international expertise to local talent — and opens new doors for players across Trinidad and the wider region.”

The event was also supported by Acadeo Distribution, the official Gatorade partner, who provided hydration support throughout the weekend’s training and tournament sessions.Acadeo Distribution, the official Gatorade partner, who provided hydration support throughout the weekend’s training and tournament sessions.

The launch of BVBIA Caribbean represents more than an academy opening — it’s the beginning of a movement to inspire, develop, and connect players and families across the region through the shared passion of Borussia Dortmund football.BVBIA Caribbean represents more than an academy opening — it’s the beginning of a movement to inspire, develop, and connect players and families across the region through the shared passion of Borussia Dortmund football.

New Season, New Look: BVBIA Unveils 2024/25 Kit

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 11:15:06 +0000

The new BVB International Academy kit is here—and it’s more than just a jersey change. It’s a statement of who we are, what we represent, and how we continue to build a better experience for every player and family in the BVBIA North America community.

And this year, we’re proud to share that our new kit rollout includes big improvements: lower costs, smarter options, and better availability.

Lower Price, Same High Quality

We listened to your feedback and worked directly with Soccer.com and the BVBIA North America network to bring down the overall price point for both our Select and Black & Yellow Academy player packages.

This means:

More affordability for families without sacrificing quality

Simplified ordering process

Same elite design and performance, built for training and matchday excellence

New Player vs. Returning Player Packages

To make things even more efficient, we’re offering two distinct options this year:

New Player Package: Includes the full kit (home, away, training gear, and accessories) for those joining the academy for the first time

Returning Player Package: A leaner, more affordable option that includes updated required items for those who already have most of their gear from last season

This flexible approach helps families avoid unnecessary costs while ensuring every player is outfitted and ready to compete.

Inline Kit = Greater Availability

One of the biggest improvements this year is the transition to an inline kit—meaning it’s part of the main product line from our supplier.

Why this matters:

Minimal backorders

Consistent sizing and re-stock options

Easier for new families to join mid-season without delays

Final Word: Designed for the Game, Built for the Community

This isn’t just about gear—it’s about building something stronger together. A unified look, a more inclusive approach to pricing, and smarter logistics are all part of our ongoing mission to raise the standard while staying true to our values: excellence, accessibility, and Echte Liebe, true love for the game.

Let’s wear the badge with pride.

Let’s make this season our best yet.

Borussia Dortmund Takes the Field at TST 7v7 — With BVBIA on the Ground

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 18:14:30 +0000

Coach Dru Leads BVBIA Squad as Dortmund Enters the $1 Million Winner-Takes-All Tournament.

There’s nothing quite like it, The Soccer Tournament (TST)is back, and it's quickly becoming one of the most electrifying events in the global soccer calendar. With a $1 million prize on the line and a thrilling 7v7 format, TST brings legends, pros, and top-level talent together in a fast-paced, winner-takes-all competition that’s impossible to ignore.

And this year, Borussia Dortmund is back in the tournament, and we’re proud to say it’s being coached by none other than Coach Dru Wright, Chief Football Officer of BVBIA North America.

What Is TST?

Held in Cary, North Carolina, TST (The Soccer Tournament) is a high-stakes 7v7 event that attracts elite players from around the world, including legends from clubs like Chelsea, Wrexham AFC, and of course Borussia Dortmund.

The tournament format is intense and unforgiving:

Small-sided matches

Fast substitutions

No draws. every game ends with a winner

The last phase features “Target Score Time,” where teams must hit a specific number to advance or win

Why BVBIA Is at TST?

Coach Dru’s leadership at TST represents more than just tactical expertise, it symbolizes trust from the mothership in Germany, and it shows that BVBIA is not just an academy wearing the badge, but a true extension of the Borussia Dortmund philosophy.

What This Means for Our Players

Inspiration: Young players across BVBIA affiliates can now see the tangible bridge between our academies and the global BVB platform.

Representation: BVBIA isn’t just watching world-class events, we’re participating in them.

Opportunity: This opens the door for future tournaments, collaborations, and experiences that connect our players to the professional world.

As BVB continues to make waves in the global soccer scene, we’re honored to be part of the journey—on the field, in the academy, and side by side in tournaments like this.

HEJA BVB! Let’s go BVBIA!

2025 Match Schedule

6/4 - BVB vs. Freedom United - WA TCH

6/4 - BVB vs. Drunken Monkeys | WATCH

6/5 - BVB vs. Plymouth Argyle FC | WATCH

BVB International Academy - North America - NEWS , BVBIA

Arizona Technical Director Darrel Marcelle Called UP to U.S. Virgin Islands Women’s National Team Staff

MEET THE BVBIA NORTH AMERICA TEAM

Standing with the Caribbean - One Team, One Family

Field Notes: BVBIA Expands to the Caribbean

A Weekend of Milestones

Building a Football Culture for the Future

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New Season, New Look: BVBIA Unveils 2024/25 Kit

Lower Price, Same High Quality

New Player vs. Returning Player Packages

Inline Kit = Greater Availability

Final Word: Designed for the Game, Built for the Community

Borussia Dortmund Takes the Field at TST 7v7 — With BVBIA on the Ground

What Is TST?

Why BVBIA Is at TST?

What This Means for Our Players