The 2006/07 DME Academy Sarasota boys team just wrapped up an unforgettable run in the Elite Academy League—one that firmly planted the program’s flag among the country’s top clubs.

After finishing second in the EA Southeast Division with a strong 8-3-2 record, the team earned a wild card spot to the EA National Championships in St. Louis.

Led by Head Coach Jake Dube, this resilient and passionate squad went into Nationals with high hopes, but soccer is a fickle sport and sometimes the bounces don’t go your way. The opening match ended in heartbreak, as the boys fell in a penalty shootout after a gritty and hard-fought battle. But true to their DNA, they didn’t fold. The boys rebounded with fire and focus, picking up a draw and a well-earned win in their next two matches to finish among the top 12 teams in the country.

Coach Jake has been at the heart of the group’s growth all season long, creating a culture of accountability, belief, and hard work. His leadership was on full display throughout the season, and especially at Nationals, where the boys showed they belonged on the biggest stage and that he has their back, a characteristic that makes many local players want to run through walls for him.

We salute you coach and players and we thank you for representing our Academy. Congratulations to the 2006/07 DME Sarasota boys and Coach Jake on an incredible season.