Quentin Lopez, a talented 2009 winger at DME is heading to Spain to joining fellow 2009 goalie Lucas Diaz at the International Development Academy (IDA) in Valencia for the next five months to further purse his soccer dreams. Lopez, a speedy and skillful outside midfielder is set to amplify his training at IDA without sacrificing his academics as he follows his dream of playing at the next level.

“My time at DME has been amazing. I really like how all my teammates pushed each other for greatness and are all extremely talented. This is the best all around team I have ever played with. It all couldn’t have happened without this organization and my coach.” – Quentin Lopez

“Quentin is super direct (pace merchant) with abilities to take players 1v1 on the wing and get quality service into the box. He delivers in big moments and off the ball works hard defensively. Overall a player any coach would love to have on their team. He brings positive energy as well. We’ll miss him but wish him well.” Coach Konrad

DME Academy and International Development Academy have been partners for four years now. Together, the organizations provide four residential options for aspiring student-athletes across the globe. Athletes who want to take the next step from the traditional club soccer world to a more committed investment via a full-time residency program have all the tools and connections needed between DME and IDA. In Valencia, he’ll double/triple up his daily efforts as it relates to soccer, train with top coaches and compete against talent from across the Globe, all in a beautiful and safe environment.

“Real pathways (not just the word pathways) are important to us. This is the second youth player that we are happily sending over to IDA in Spain. Its becoming more common to see the U19 boys give international soccer a try but for U16’s to be taking these chances and putting their soccer to the test, is really quite remarkable. With IDA, we have a trusted partner that values academics and visibility. We will miss Quentin, but couldn’t be happier for him.” Jared Antista, GM at DME

DME Sarasota will follow the boys in action as they experience soccer in Spain and report back throughout their semester overseas. Good luck and represent us well!