DME Academy is excited to announce the appointment of Glodi Konga as the Director of Coaching and Recruitment. With an impressive coaching background and extensive experience in soccer, Konga’s addition to the DME Academy team marks a significant step forward.

“I delayed this hiring decision for the first season to learn, embed myself in club life, discover opportunities, and understand challenges. Finding the right fit in terms of philosophy, energy, and ethics was crucial to me. This hiring is a major step for the Academy and DME players. Dr. Konga is the ultimate professional – rigid, patient, experienced, and highly competitive. I am extremely excited to kick things off.” – Jared Antista, Owner of DME Academy, Sarasota

Konga joins DME Academy with a distinguished coaching career, currently serving as the Head Men’s Coach at New College in Sarasota in the NAIA. Before New College, he led successful seasons at Eastern University (PA), Haverford College, and the University of Valley Forge. Holding a (UEFA) B license, he has coached in the NPSL, focusing on developing players for the next level.

In addition to coaching, Konga brings a rich playing history, including a notable NJCAA national championship at Cloud County CC (KS) and a two-year stint at NCAA Division I Liberty University. He played professionally with the Philadelphia Fury and taught sports management as an Assistant Professor at the University of Valley Forge.

A key responsibility for Konga at DME Academy will be overseeing the coaching staff, playing a crucial role in shaping the club’s philosophy and direction. He will also actively contribute to the player recruitment process, leveraging his expertise to guide and mentor older DME athletes pursuing opportunities at the next level.

Beyond on-field contributions, Glodi Konga holds a BS in Exercise Science, an MS in Sports Management from Liberty, and a Ph.D. in sports leadership from Concordia University in Chicago, demonstrating his dedication to continuous learning and development in the sports industry.

Expressing his excitement about joining DME Academy, Konga stated, “I feel privileged to be a member of the DME family. The endeavors led by Jared and the Daytona team nationwide are truly thrilling. With multiple locations, a vision to provide athletes exposure to global soccer experiences, and a keen eye for talent, I am eager to contribute to the Academy’s growth and development.”

DME Academy eagerly anticipates the positive impact Glodi Konga will bring, solidifying its position as a premier soccer academy committed to nurturing talent and shaping the future of the sport. Konga will come on board before tryouts to help shape the direction of DME in Sarasota for the 24/25 season.