Soda City FC UPSL Youth Academy
Our objective is to provide a culture where player development is the central focus based on each individual’s capabilities. We will provide an environment in which the value of hard work and the willingness to learn will transcend
success at a higher level. The players’ progress and achievements will lead to a pathway from club to college to pro.
• Competitive level training with Soda City FC Staff & Players
• Top regional competition within North & South Carolina
• United States Youth Futsal (USYF) Regional & National team eligible
• Regional & National Playoff opportunities
• Futsal Development Training
• 2 Tournament or College Showcase events per season
U13
Born on or after
1/1/2013
U15
Born on or after
1/1/2011
U17
Born on or after
1/1/2009
BOYS TRYOUT DATES:
May 28 & 29 from 6-8pm
LOCATION:
Irmo High School Practice fields
Tryout Fee: $50
What is The UPSL Academy Division?
The United Premier Soccer League Academy provides an innovative pathway for youth players within UPSL communities nationwide. This unique pre-professional league aligns with the United States’ professional calendar, complements existing local youth organizations, and offers players extensive access to the First Team. For more on the UPSL Academy Division visit upsl.com.
UPSL Academy clubs can now establish a well-defined path for top youth prospects in their area to reach the professional level and sign directly with their senior team. This new structure offers UPSL clubs a cost-effective model to develop local players for the senior team, at a fraction of the cost of traditional pre-professional academies. This approach also allows more clubs and communities to participate, fostering a regional footprint that minimizes travel demands for teams and families.
The following clubs have committed to playing at this level and will offer us some great competition and travel opportunities:
- River City
- Charleston United
- N.C. Ballers FC (Charlotte)
- High Country Soccer Association (Boone)
- A.C. Raleigh
- Asheville FC
Coaches
A program is only as good as it’s coaches.

Technical Director
Georges Trifos
Two-time UPSL National Champions Head Coach Soda City FC, former Greek professional

Coach
Debola Ogunseye
Two-time UPSL National Champions Head Coach/Assistant Coach Soda City FC former Turkish professional

Coach
Rauf Salifu
Two-time National Champion Soda City FC Player, Fall 2024 Runner-Up Top Score former MLS Next PRO, Ghana, Malaysia professional

Coach
Lamar Thompson
Two-time UPSL National Champions Soda City Player, Fall 2024 UPSL MVP, former Jamaican professional

Coach
Troy Jay Paul
Two-time UPSL National Champion Soda City Player/Captain former NISA professional

Goal Keeper Coach
Jacob Cotton
Two-time UPSL National Champion Soda City Player Fall 2024 Golden Glove keeper of the season