AIA RESIDENTIAL SOCCER ACADEMY
ALL INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
Summer Residential Academy
Want to take your game to the next level? We know we can help! With our experienced staff and holistic approach to training, we will support you on your journey to becoming your best! As a college athlete, there is only a small window of time for maximizing your potential; you must invest in your summers wisely. So what are you waiting for? Sign up, and let’s get training!
The AIA Residential Soccer Academy offers collegiate and aspiring pro players an intensive and immersive training experience focused on developing the athlete to be Fresh-Fit-In Form, for whatever destination is next.
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 have taken him all over the world, learning from some of the world’s top coaches. He holds a USSF A license and is, at the moment, working towards completing his UEFA A badge. Additionally, he has earned professional diplomas in High Performance in Spain and Tactical Periodization in Portugal and is currently enrolled in a dual master’s degree in high-performance coaching from the University of South Wales and Universidad Europea from Spain. With over a decade of experience in college coaching, Knight wants to build an ideal training environment for aspiring athletes looking to improve their playing ability and develop as leaders and ambassadors 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 COLLINS
GOALKEEPER COACH
Micah Collins 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 19-June 29, 2025
Location: Athletes in Action Headquarters in Xenia, Ohio
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
