Soccer Success
At YSC Academy, soccer isn’t just a passion—it’s a pathway.
Designed in partnership with the Philadelphia Union, our academic model aligns with the demands of elite soccer development, providing student-athletes with the structure, support, and flexibility needed to reach the next level.
From the classroom to the field YSC Academy students and Philadelphia Union players develop the skills, discipline, and mindset required for success in both academics and athletics.
For the next generation with the ambition to turn their professional dreams into reality, YSC Academy and the Philadelphia Union offer a proven pathway—from youth development to professional contracts. With a focus on cognitive skills, leadership, and a high-performance mentality, we empower the next generation of athletes to take ownership of their development and maximize their potential.
From the classroom to the field—your pathway to a professional career starts here.
Athletic Pathways Realized
Philadelphia Union
Men's National Team
Premier League
FIFA World Cup
Olympics
Ligue 1
Major League Soccer
NCAA
United Soccer League
Scottish Premiership
Our Pros
40 out of our 140 alumni are professional soccer players with careers spanning from MLS to the Premier League.
“For me, YSC Academy has taught me balance. As someone who is eager to be the best in everything I do, balancing school, soccer, and a social life is a difficult task. But through YSC Academy I have learned different techniques and responsibilities to help me with that. What’s really special is that my teachers and mentors aren’t attempting to change my personality or dreams, rather help me get there with their knowledge and past experience.”
Cavan Sullivan | Philadelphia Union
YSC Academy Class of 2026
“YSC Academy gave me the foundation I needed to chase my dreams. The environment was unlike anything i've ever seen: small class sizes, dedicated teachers who understood the demands of being a student-athlete, and the daily exposure to high-level soccer that mirrored a professional setting. What made YSC truly special was how seamlessly it blended academics and athletics. I never had to choose between my education and my development as a player. It was here that I learned discipline, time management, and how to lead, qualities that still shape who I am today.”
Mark McKenzie | USMNT
YSC Academy Class of 2017
“YSC was more than just a school—it was a second home. Being surrounded by top athletes pushed me to be better every day, not just on the field but as a person. The friendships I made there are truly lifelong because we went through something so unique together. And the teachers and staff genuinely cared—not just about my grades or performance, but about me as a person. Even after graduating, I know I’ll always have their support. It’s a place that shapes you in every way."
Auston Trusty | Celtic FC
YSC Academy Class of 2016 and Board Member
The YSC Impact
“YSC Academy played a huge role in shaping who Brenden and Paxten are today, both as players and as young men. The school created an environment that challenged them to think critically, be independent, and approach life with maturity well beyond their years. Now that they’re both living and playing professionally in Europe, it’s clear how well YSC prepared them to manage their time, hold themselves accountable, and thrive in high-performance settings.”
Rusty Aaronson
Parent of YSC Alumni Brenden Aaronson '19 and Paxten Aaronson '22
"YSC Academy is truly one of a kind—a place where elite soccer development and academic excellence go hand in hand. The structure and routine at YSC empower student-athletes to thrive in both arenas without compromise. Beyond the training and academics, the strong sense of community and brotherhood has shaped who I am. The relationships I’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned at YSC have laid a strong foundation for my personal and professional success, teaching me how to push myself every day to be the best version of myself—both on and off the field."
Issa Rayyan
YSC Alumni Class of 2018
“YSC Academy provides the perfect opportunity for our players to get a great education while pursuing soccer excellence with the Philadelphia Union Academy soccer program. This 'Brick and Mortar' school provides in-person classes with great teachers along with remote learning when necessary. YSC is equipped to meet each student's needs from those taking AP and accelerated courses to some that need additional assistance with their studies.”
Wesley Greer
Parent of YSC Academy Students Zachary Greer '25 & Nick Greer '26