AIA RESIDENTIAL SOCCER ACADEMY
ALL INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
Summer Residential Academy
Want to take your game to the next level? We believe an ideal training environment will include a high performance culture along with a high Gospel culture. As an athlete, you will learn the professional skills needed to take your game to the next level along with learning how the Gospel invites you to compete at an even higher level within your sport.
The AIA Residential Soccer Academy offers collegiate and aspiring pro players an intensive, holistic training experience focused on physical, mental, and spiritual growth.
AIA RESIDENTIAL ACADEMY TEAM
GRANT KNIGHT
DIRECTOR OF AIA RESIDENTIAL SOCCER ACADEMY
Knight is passionate about player development. His experience and education from player to coach has taken him all over the world, learning from some of the world’s top coaches. Currently, he holds an USSF A license along with an UEFA B coaching badge from the Irish FA. Additionally, he has earned professional diplomas in High Performance in Spain and Tactical Periodization in Portugal. With over a decade of experience in college coaching, Knight wants to build an ideal training environment for the aspiring athlete looking to improve in their playing ability, along with developing as a leader and ambassador of the sport.
SKYY SIMMONS
DIRECTOR OF SPEED & PERFORMANCE
Skyy, a Syracuse University graduate with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Information Systems Technology Management and Sports Administration, combines academic knowledge with professional football experience. As a Certified Coach, he’s trained athletes of all levels, focusing on speed, skill development, mobilization, strength, and velocity-based training to help them reach their full potential.
Hailing from New York, Skyy’s deep faith in Christ serves as a guiding force in his life, providing inspiration and strength as he continues to empower athletes to enhance their physical abilities and nurture mental resilience, aiming to help individuals reach their highest potential.
JEFF FRIDAY
DIRECTOR OF HUMAN PERFORMANCE
Jeff Friday is a Super Bowl Champion Head S&C Coach (Ravens) and has worked with elite athletes in the NFL for 21 years. Jeff has a unique ability to bring out the highest potential in the athletes he guides and coaches.
LAUREN JONES
SPEED COACH
Lauren Jones has a Masters in Exercise Science and is a Hall of Fame (NCAA D1 + HS) sprinter. Our programming is infused with the same fundamentals and techniques that drove Lauren’s incredible performance as an athlete.
MICAH JONES
GOALKEEPER COACH
Micah Jones is the Academy Goal Keeper Trainer for MLS Philadelphia Union.
TRAINING APPROACH
FRESH
Through an individualized-tailored approach, each player is supported in developing their potential and equipped to manage the challenges of high performance; resulting in confident, fresh athletes ready for Game Day.
FIT
Whether it is rehabbing an injury or preparing for an international trial, the Staff equips and supports the player on every step to arrive at their next stop fit and ready.
IN-FORM
Having access to top-class speakers, Professional Coaches, and a Sports Psychologist, as well as an innovative modern approach to player development and training, the players will be equipped to play at their best.
FACILITIES
TRAIN WHERE CHAMPIONS ARE MADE
The AIA Residential Soccer Academy takes place at our state-of-the-art Sports Complex in Xenia, Ohio, which features professional-grade soccer fields, indoor court facility, and a cutting-edge Sports Performance Center. Athletes have access to advanced weight training equipment, athletic recovery resources, as well as a modern dorm and dining facility for a comfortable stay. This premier environment ensures athletes have everything needed to train, recover, and perform at their highest potential.
LEADERSHIP TRAINING
BUILDING LEADERS IN SOCCER & LIFE
Beyond athletic skills, the academy equips players with leadership skills, preparing them to inspire others on and off the field.
HIGH PROFILE MATCHES
COMPETING AT THE HIGHEST SUMMER LEVEL
Players compete in high-level matches, playing against MLS Academies, USL 2, and UPSL amateur teams during the summer. For those interested
and have the standard, international trials can be arranged in various countries at differing levels.
COMMUNITY & BROTHERHOOD
ON AND OFF THE FIELD
The academy builds a strong sense of unity among players, emphasizing shared goals, mutual support, and accountability. This close-knit community encourages athletes to push each other to their best, creating bonds that last beyond the game. Each summer, community-service events are added into the schedule
Apply for the Summer Residential Academy program.
Dates: May 20-June 30, 2024
Location: Athletes in Action Headquarters in Xenia, Ohio
Apply for International Trip To Guatemala
Dates: July 7-July 13
Inquire for pricing packages at soccer@athletesinaction.org
Volunteer with AIA Soccer
Camps, international trips, coaching and discipleship are some of the many volunteering opportunities we have at Athletes in Action.
Connect with Athletes in Action on your campus
Talk with a staff member to learn more about what Athletes in Action does to serve college soccer athletes
