BVB International Academy - North America - NEWS

Training beyond borders

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 15:52:08 +0000

For BVB International Academy El Paso player Steven D., this summer brought an opportunity to take his development beyond the United States and experience football in an entirely new environment.

Steven traveled from El Paso to Warsaw, Poland, where he attended a BVB soccer camp hosted by BVB Academy WBS Warsaw. The experience gave him the chance to train in a European setting, meet players from another part of the world, and continue learning within the Borussia Dortmund football culture.

Throughout the week, players participated in multiple training sessions designed to challenge them technically, tactically, and physically. The camp also incorporated activities beyond the field, including team-building, a nutrition workshop, BVB competitions, and a Champions League-style tournament.

For a young player, experiences like this are about much more than simply playing soccer.

Traveling internationally requires players to adapt to a different environment, different teammates, new coaches, and new expectations. It challenges them to become more independent, confident, and comfortable outside their normal routine.

One Club. A Global Football Family.

One of the unique aspects of being part of BVB International Academy is the connection players have to a much larger football community.

Whether training in El Paso, Warsaw, Dortmund, or another BVB International Academy location around the world, the Black and Yellow identity creates opportunities for players to experience different cultures while sharing a common passion for the game.

Steven's trip is another example of what that connection can look like.

He was able to represent BVB International Academy El Paso internationally while experiencing firsthand how Borussia Dortmund's football philosophy extends beyond Germany and into academies around the world.

Bringing the Experience Back to El Paso

The greatest value of an experience like this often comes after the trip is over.

Steven returns to El Paso with new training experiences, new friendships, greater independence, and a broader understanding of the game. Those lessons can now become part of his continued development within the BVBIA El Paso environment.

For our players, development isn't limited to one team, one field, or even one country. Sometimes the next step in the journey takes you thousands of miles from home.

Congratulations to Steven on representing BVB International Academy El Paso in Warsaw and taking advantage of an incredible opportunity to learn, compete, and experience the global Black and Yellow family.

Building a Culture, the BVB Way

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 08:03:06 +0000

A new season often brings renewed attention to schedules, results, and the next match. But lasting player development begins somewhere deeper. It begins with culture.

At BVB International Academy, culture is not simply something we discuss at the beginning of the season. It is something we practice every day. It can be seen in how players enter the training environment, respond to challenges, support their teammates, and take responsibility for their development.

More Than a Style of Play

The BVB Way is influenced by the identity, values, and player-development philosophy of Borussia Dortmund. It is ambitious, powerful, responsible, and real.

These values shape more than how our teams play. They guide how players compete, how coaches lead, and how families contribute to the environment surrounding each young person.

Being ambitious means having the courage to pursue meaningful goals and continuing to improve.

Being powerful means bringing energy, confidence, and determination to every opportunity.

Being responsible means understanding that our choices affect our teammates, coaches, families, opponents, and the larger academy community.

Being real means competing and communicating with honesty, authenticity, and respect.

Together, these values help create an environment where young players learn to think, compete, connect, and take increasing ownership of their development.

What BVB Culture Looks Like in Action

Culture becomes meaningful when it moves beyond words and becomes visible through everyday behavior.

For players and families, the BVB Way can begin with three practical expectations:

Show up ready to contribute.
Treat teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials with respect.
Bring energy and purpose to the work each day.

These expectations can be seen in how a player prepares for training, reacts after making a mistake, communicates with teammates, accepts coaching, and carries a lesson from one moment into the next.

A player does not need to be the loudest person on the field or the best performer in every session to strengthen the culture. Sometimes leadership is arriving prepared. Sometimes it is encouraging a teammate. Sometimes it is responding positively when the game becomes difficult.

Each of those choices matters.

Development Through the BVB Way

The BVB Way is also reflected in how development is approached.

The objective is not to rush young players toward labels or compare every individual journey. It is to identify the next useful challenge, provide honest and actionable support, and allow improvement to become visible over time.

Development is not always linear, and it cannot always be measured by the result of a match. A player may demonstrate growth through a better decision, a more confident response, greater consistency, or a willingness to attempt something difficult.

That is why the training environment matters so much. Every session should give players opportunities to solve problems, make decisions, compete with purpose, and learn from both success and failure.

Everyone Helps Build the Culture

A strong academy culture is not created by coaches alone. It is built through the shared actions of players, families, coaches, and staff.

Families can help by noticing the behaviors beneath the outcome and asking players what they saw, tried, and learned.

Coaches can help by making expectations clear, connecting feedback to development, and consistently modeling the standards they expect.

Players can help by taking responsibility for their preparation, effort, communication, and next response.

When everyone understands their role, culture becomes more than an idea. It becomes a shared experience and a genuine sense of belonging—an expression of Echte Liebe.

As we head Back to the Pitch, our focus extends beyond preparing for the next game. We are building environments in which young players can grow as athletes, teammates, leaders, and people.

That is the BVB Way.

Learn more about the BVB International Academy approach and player-development experience across North America at bvbia-northamerica.com.

Setting the Record Straight in NORTH TEXAS

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:28:26 +0000

Recent communications by Sting Soccer Club and Youth Soccer International Academy, Inc. ("YSIA") claim that Sting Soccer Club has purchased, acquired, or merged with "BVB North Texas Soccer Club." This is incorrect. No legal entity by the name "BVB North Texas Soccer Club" exists or has ever existed. What Sting Soccer Club appears to have purchased is YSIA, a privately held U.S. entity.

YSIA previously held a sublicense agreement granted by BVB International Academy North America, itself operating under license from BVB Fußballakademie GmbH, authorizing YSIA to operate under the name "BVB International Academy North Texas." This license was terminated effective April 6, 2026.

As of April 6, 2026, neither YSIA nor Sting Soccer Club holds any license to use the BVB name, brand, or any associated intellectual property. A limited wind-down accommodation was granted to YSIA solely to avoid disruption for player families with existing contracts during the current season.

This accommodation does not constitute an ongoing affiliation of any kind.

All copyrights, trademarks, and intellectual property rights associated with the BVB name and brand are owned by or exclusively licensed to BVB Merchandising GmbH, BVB Fußballakademie GmbH, Borussia Dortmund GmbH & Co. KGaA and/or any affiliated BVB entity including BVBIA North America. Neither YSIA nor Sting Soccer Club has any right to use, display, or otherwise exploit these rights. Any such use constitutes an infringement of BVB's intellectual property rights.

BVBIA North America, operating under license from BVB Fußballakademie GmbH, will continue to serve the Dallas–Fort Worth area through the forthcoming launch of "BVBIA DFW." Tryout details will be announced shortly.

Families deserve accurate information when making decisions about their child's soccer future.

Sting Soccer Club purchased a soccer club. It did not acquire BVB.

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.

School of Excellence Players Head to Germany

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:29:23 +0000

This week, some of the top young players from across the BVB International Academy network will travel to Germany as part of the School of Excellence (SOE) Germany Trip, taking place March 12–20.

The group features elite players from the 2011/2010 Boys and 2011–2007 Girls age groups, selected from five BVB International Academy affiliates across the network. These players represent the highest level of the BVBIA development pathway, having progressed through the School of Excellence identification process at the local, regional, and national levels.

The SOE Germany trip is designed to immerse players in the culture and standards of Borussia Dortmund while providing meaningful international competition and exposure to the professional academy environment.

Competing Against Borussia Dortmund’s Academy

During their time in Germany, players will participate in training sessions and competitive matches against top-level opposition.

The girls’ teams will compete against Borussia Dortmund’s Youth Academy and Women’s Youth Academy / Second Team, offering a rare opportunity to test themselves against players developing within the professional system.

The boys’ teams will also take part in a high-level match and training sessions designed to challenge them within the demanding environment that defines German football development.

A Key Stage in the School of Excellence Pathway

The School of Excellence program represents the highest performance pathway within BVB International Academy. Players are identified through a series of scouting and development events across the network before earning the opportunity to participate in international experiences such as the Germany trip.

Trips like these allow players to experience firsthand the expectations and standards associated with Borussia Dortmund while representing their local academies on an international stage.

Representing the Network

This year’s SOE squad brings together players from five BVB International Academy affiliates, reflecting the strength of development across the growing North American network. Each player selected represents not only their club but the collective progress of the entire BVBIA community.

As these players travel to Germany, they carry with them the values that define BVB International Academy, developing players the BVB Way: Ambitious. Powerful. Responsible. Real.

In the coming weeks, the School of Excellence pathway will continue with another milestone event: the first-ever Junior School of Excellence Germany trip, which will bring the next generation of BVBIA players to Dortmund.

SOE Girls Roster

Ryleigh Tootle - 2008
Kaleigh West - 2008
Karma Iglehart - 2008
Khloe Siscon - 2010
Ember Vlachos - 2009
Era Simmonds - 2009
Julia Hudson - 2007
Tehilla Williams - 2011
Mila Cabrinha - 2010
Harper Chapman - 2008
Kamrynn Martinez - 2008
Miley Rojas - 2008
Raiha Kalama - 2009
Elza Hoti - 2006
Gianna Harris - 2007
Steffi Scott - 2008

SOE Boys Roster

Jaxx Weinstein - 2010
Francisco Herrara - 2010
Benjamin Murdock - 2010
Alister Tam - 2010
Ryker Seekamp - 2010
Luke Gleich - 2010
Langston Blue - 2010
Drian Hoti - 2010
Fernando Portillo - 2010
Lex Jackson - 2010
Parker Fitzgerald - 2010
Israel Best - 2010
Oshea Watson - 2010
Dylan Moore - 2011
Chuck Reece - 2011
Zaydn Gracia - 2011
Logan Schroeder - 2011

More News

The BVBIA School of Excellence descends upon Orlando

GIRLS NATIONAL TEAM IN ACTION THIS WEEKEND

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 21:18:42 +0000

BVB International Academy Girls National Team Takes on the Premier Cup in Austin

Our U12 Girls National School of Excellence Team has arrived in Austin to compete in the Premier Cup (Austin) this weekend.

These players earned their spot through the BVBIA School of Excellence pathway, progressing through local, regional, and national Player ID events to represent the best of our academy network.

This team brings together talented players from multiple BVB International Academy affiliates across North America, united for one goal, competing and developing the BVB Way.

Only the most dedicated and high-performing players advanced to the national teams representing BVB International Academy. Their journey reflects not just skill, but resilience, growth, and a deep love for the game.

Coaching Leadership

The teams heading to the Premier Cup are under the guidance of experienced BVBIA Coach Nancy Mankamyer from El Paso, TX.

We couldn’t be more proud of the players and coaches representing BVB International Academy at this event. From the SOE selection process to rigorous team training, each athlete has demonstrated the passion and character that define our academy.

Follow along as we share updates, stories from Austin, and highlights from the tournament, and join us in cheering on these outstanding young players as they represent BVBIA this weekend.

U12 Girls Roster

0	Presley Grubbs
14	Hayden Kull
21	Armi Castro
2	Zoe Estrada
5	Jenna Alvarez
27	Addison Osborne
3	Lily Arphul
20	Olivia Price
13	Penelope Healey
19	Cassidy Cline
11	Jiya Vass
10	Amani Morado

Match Schedule

Saturday, 7 March

11:15 am | BVBIA 15/14G v Pearland SC
4:40 pm | BVBIA 15/14G v TC Premier

Sunday, 8 March

9:15 am | BVBIA 15/14G v Atletico Dallas Youth

The match schedule can be located here.

BVBIA Mexico Expands with New Locations

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 17:21:19 +0000

BVB International Academy Expands BVBIA Mexico network with Academia Borussia

BVB International Academy North America is continuing its strategic growth across the region with an exciting new chapter: the official integration of Academia Borussia into the BVBIA Mexico structure, expanding the network into Mexico City.

This move marks more than geographic growth. It represents the strengthening of an already aligned relationship built on shared values, high coaching standards, and a player-centered philosophy.

A Natural Evolution

Academia Borussia has long operated in close alignment with BVB International Academy principles. Now, as an official member of the BVBIA ecosystem, the academy will fully integrate into the broader North American network, creating new opportunities for players, coaches, and families in one of the world’s most vibrant football cities.

Mexico City is a global football hub, rich in culture, passion, and history. Bringing Academia Borussia formally into BVBIA Mexico reinforces the organization’s commitment to building authentic, long-term development structures throughout North America.

As Douglas Payne, Chief Executive Officer of BVB International Academy North America, shared:

“Mexico City is a global hub for football, and welcoming Academia Borussia into our network is a major step forward for our organization. They have built something special in their community, and their philosophy aligns closely with the values and standards we expect across BVBIA. We’re excited to support their growth and provide new pathways for their players and coaches.”

Implementing the BVB Way

As part of BVBIA Mexico, Academia Borussia will fully implement the BVB Training Philosophy rooted in:

Technical excellence
Intelligent decision-making
Intensity in play
Character development on and off the pitch

This integration connects players directly to the broader BVBIA development pathway, including:

Structured curriculum alignment

Coach education programs
Digital infrastructure and operational support
Regional, national, and international identification opportunities

The result is a consistent standard of development that maintains local identity while connecting players to a larger global football network.

Strengthening the Global Network

BVB International Academy North America continues to build a connected, high-quality ecosystem where players are developed holistically while being part of something bigger than their local club.

The expansion into Mexico City reflects a long-term vision: unify markets under one authentic development model, preserve cultural identity, and provide clear, structured pathways for players and coaches.

With Academia Borussia now formally part of BVBIA North America, that vision continues to take shape.

More News:

BVBIA Announces National Team Player Pools

BOYS NATIONAL TEAMS IN ACTION THIS WEEKEND

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:11:52 +0000

BVB International Academy National Teams Take on the Surf Cup Southwest in Las Vegas

The excitement is building as our National-level SOE teams travel to Las Vegas, Nevada this weekend for the Surf Cup Southwest, one of the most competitive youth soccer tournaments of the spring season. From February 27 – March 1, 2026, Surf Cup Southwest brings together elite boys and girls teams from across the country to compete in high-level tournament action.

This trip to Las Vegas is the culmination of an intense selection pathway for our players. Each athlete earned their spot through the SOE process, showcasing their talent and commitment at:

Local Player ID
Regional Competitions
National Player ID Event

Coaching Leadership

The teams heading to Surf Cup Southwest are under the guidance of experienced BVBIA coaches from across the country.

Our staff leading these teams includes:

Dru Wright - BVBIA North America
Brian Wilson - BVBIA Georgia
Mark Ure - BVBIA Hawaii

Follow along as we share updates, stories from Las Vegas, and highlights from the tournament, and join us in cheering on these outstanding young players as they represent BVBIA this weekend.

U11 Boys Roster

1	Gabriel Hartnett
9	Aviel Victor Murathime
4	Miguel Aviles
21	Tyler Wombough
98	Myles Barr-Karagiannis
99	Callum McLaughlin
8	Wyatt Vrudny
26	Mason Darbelnet
5	Jet Zemp
7	Eli Priebe
90	Beckham Frazer
16	Mael Nathan Kalubi Mpoy
94	Yohan Robinson

U13 Boys Roster

1	Tristan Tucker
92	Sean Hoyte
13	Arien Shah
4	Jace Disinski
35	Cesar Patricio Rodriguez
14	Giannlukas Quintana
10	Liam Suffredin
11	José María Torres Cruz
77	Santiago Ruiz Beltran
8	Zachriel Smith
91	Benjamin Paulk
30	Adrian Segovia
7	Brody Crouch
22	Luis Igleasia
9	Cooper Ridgeway

U14 Boys Roster

12	Jakob Cho
61	Leo Corbett
15	Fernando Leon
2	Adrian Gilbert
37	Connor Tran
98	Santino Dordoni
10	Guillermo Vazquez Castro
23	Fernando Tapia Gonzalez
93	Colten Nicholson
30	Phineas Isaac
25	Victor Jones
97	Jeykob Antolin
40	Jose Cavazos
21	David Beltran
4	Keanu Aukai Mano
9	Andy Camacho
88	Ali’i Keohuloa-Lima

Match Schedule

Friday, 27 February

7:20 pm | BVBIA15 v Dublin United
7:30 pm | BVBIA12 v Las Vegas United

Saturday, 28 February

10:40 am | BVBIA15 v Las Vegas Sports Academy

11:00 am | BVBIA12 v Prime SC

12:30 pm | BVBIA14 v LV Heat Surf

5:00 pm | BVBIA14 v Albion SC

5:20 pm | BVBIA15 v Downtown Las Vegas SC

BVBIA NAtional Player Pools Announced

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 23:29:03 +0000

BVB International Academy Announces National Player Pools

Today, we are proud to announce the formation of our National Player Pools, a group of outstanding young players selected through the School of Excellence Pathway.

These players represent the very best of our growing international network, with athletes selected from across the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Each has earned their place through consistent commitment, strong character, and a demonstrated ability to grow within the BVB development framework.

The School of Excellence Pathway

The School of Excellence (SOE) is designed to identify, challenge, and develop players who show the potential to compete at the highest levels of the game. Through regional and national player identification events, athletes are evaluated by BVB International Academy staff in alignment with the Borussia Dortmund training philosophy, focusing on technical quality, tactical understanding, mentality, and coachability.

Selection into the National Player Pool is earned through a player’s performance across the local, regional, and national stages of the School of Excellence Pathway, highlighting consistency, commitment, and continued development at each level.

A Truly International Group

This year’s National Player Pool highlights the global nature of the BVB International Academy community. Players have been selected from the US, Mexico and the Caribbean. Together, they form a diverse, competitive, and unified group connected by a shared love for the game and a commitment to growth the BVB Way.

What Being Selected Means

Players selected to the National Player Pool will be part of a player pathway that serves as a resource for national team events, tournaments, and guest playing opportunities across the BVB International Academy network.

Earning selection into the National Player Pool is a reflection of the hard work put in by players, families, coaches, and local affiliates across our network. We are proud of each athlete and excited to continue supporting their development on and off the pitch.

National Player Pool Roster

The following players have been selected to the BVB International Academy National Player Pool through the School of Excellence Pathway:

GIRLS

2015 - 2014 Girls

Presley Grubbs - 2015
Armi Castro - 2015
Jenna Alvarez - 2015
Addison Osborne - 2015
Lily Arphul - 2015
Olivia Price - 2015
Amani Morado - 2015
Cassidy Cline - 2015
Hayden Kull - 2015
Zoe Estrada - 2014
Jiya Vass - 2014
Penelope Healey - 2014

2013 - 2012 Girls

Mila Ellis - 2013
Avery Foster - 2013
Caroline White - 2013
Avery Baldwin - 2013
Eriana Vargas - 2013
Hattie Sanderson - 2013
Kaydence Brown - 2013
Kaylee Klassen - 2013
Joslyin Lee - 2013
Valentine Volkmer - 2013
Morgan Pierce - 2013
Valentina Olvera - 2013
Josselyn Parent - 2013
Ella Fernandez - 2013
Sara Roopchand - 2012
Kenzie Bucchi - 2012
Madeline Nestor - 2012

2011-2007 Girls

Ryleigh Tootle - 2008
Karma Iglehart - 2008
Ember Vlachos - 2009
Raiha Kalama - 2009
Mila Cabrinha - 2010
Lilliana Bluemle - 2010
Harper Chapman - 2008
Kamrynn Martinez - 2008
Gianna Harris - 2007
Elza Hoti - 2006
Steffi Scott - 2008
Khloe Siscon - 2010
Tehilla Williams - 2011
Julia Hudson - 2007
Kaleigh West - 2008
Era Simmonds - 2009
Miley Rojas - 2009
Chloe Mosberger - 2011
Alexis King - 2009

BOYS

2016 - 2015 Boys

Jet Zemp - 2016
Mason Darbelnet - 2016
Wyatt Vrudny - 2016
Gabriel Hartnett - 2015
Aviel Victor Murathime - 2015
Miguel Aviles - 2015
Tyler Wombough - 2015
Myles Barr-Karagiannis - 2015
Beckham Frazer - 2015
Aidan Hidalgo - 2015
Alex Lee - 2015
Mael Nathan Kalubi Mpoy - 2015
Yohan Robinson - 2015
Julian Martinez - 2015
Callum McLaughlin - 2015
Eli Priebe - 2015
Nolan Fofie - 2015

2014 Boys

Sean Hoyte - 2014
Arien Shah - 2014
Liam Suffredin - 2014
José María Torres Cruz - 2014
Cooper Ridgeway - 2014
Cesar Patricio Rodriguez - 2014
Brody Crouch - 2014
Giannlukas Quintana - 2014
Luis Igleasia - 2014
Santiago Ruiz Beltran - 2014
Zachriel Smith - 2014
Tristan Tucker - 2014
Jax Gevry - 2014
Jace Disinski - 2014
Luke Jenkins - 2014
Benjamin Paulk - 2014
Adrian Segovia - 2014
Hänsel Dieter Klein - 2014
Milan Andrade - 2014
David Koryon - 2014
Brayden Erway - 2014
Marcos Sanchez - 2014

2013 Boys

Nolen Inthavongsy - 2013
Connor Tran - 2013
Jackson Terkel - 2013
Logan Jindra - 2013
Phineas Isaac - 2013
Finnegan Potts - 2013
Finnley Smith - 2013
Dante Acosta - 2013
Zander Olivares - 2013
Jackson Stubblefield - 2013
Jionny Macias - 2013
Bradley Purcell - 2013
Leo Corbett - 2013
Guillermo Vazquez Castro - 2013
Jeykob Antolin - 2013
Keanu Aukai Mano - 2013
Santino Dordoni - 2013
King Soledad - 2013
Osmin Benetiz - 2013
Sawyer Mack - 2013
Justin Fildan - 2013
Andy Camacho - 2013

2012 Boys

Jonas Valtierra-Rodriguez - 2012
Kurt Dominique - 2012
Connor Kempf - 2012
Gabriel Chang - 2012
Jorge Zaid Teran Marin - 2012
Fernando Tapia - 2012
David Ruiz Beltran - 2012
Neo Gelemanovic - 2012
Jose Cavazos - 2012
Cristofer Morales - 2012
Isaiah Lookadoo - 2012
Jaydon Klassen - 2012
Iker Topete - 2012
Jakob Cho - 2012
Gregory Scott - 2012
Adrian Gilbert - 2012
Colten Nicholson - 2012
Aiden Xhafa - 2012
Fernando León - 2012
Victor Jones - 2012
Eli Pollak - 2012
Adonia Getnet - 2012

2011 Boys

Dylan Moore - 2011
Chuck Reece - 2011
Emmanuel De La Riva - 2011
Kai Moulton - 2011
Zaydn Gracia - 2011
Gadhiel Zammir Soto - 2011
Logan Schroeder - 2011
Gabriel Ianance - 2011
Colin Howard - 2011
Elijah Malone - 2011
Cristiano Tapia - 2011
Jacob Cortes-Xona - 2011
O'Brian Vera - 2011
D'Anthony Lopez Mexico - 2011
Ian Lee - 2011
André Gutierrez Fiol - 2011
Dax White - 2011
Daniel Rafael Argaez Peniche - 2011

2010 Boys

Jaxx Weinstein - 2010
Francisco Herrara - 2010
Ryker Seekamp - 2010
Luke Gleich - 2010
Langston Blue - 2010
Drian Hoti - 2010
Fernando Portillo - 2010
Lex Jackson - 2010
Parker Fitzgerald - 2010
Benjamin Murdock - 2010
Alister Tam - 2010
Oshea Watson - 2010
Israel Best - 2010
Carlos Munguia - 2010
Sebastian Guitron - 2010
Matias Vazquez - 2010
Dominic Battung - 2010
Leonardo Gael Herrera - 2010
Filipe Pinto - 2010
Sebastian Martinez - 2010
Ayden Aguilar - 2010
Joan Issac Chavez Sandoval - 2010

Ollie Lemker - 2010

SOE National Player ID Event Recap

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.