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LaLiga Vermont Program: A Year-Round Path to Excellence

by Olivier Bergeron '25
LaLiga Vermont, a premier soccer program housed at Vermont Academy, has become a beacon of opportunity for young athletes looking to improve their game. Established in 2022, the program is a collaboration between Vermont Academy and LaLiga, one of Europe’s most prestigious professional soccer leagues. With a focus on skill development, exposure, and holistic athlete growth, the program provides a unique platform for aspiring soccer players.
The LaLiga Vermont program is much more than a fall soccer season. It operates year-round and features specialized training sessions and tactical workshops. The winter and spring offer indoor training opportunities, while summer camps focus on skill development and playing in a league with top teams from across New England. “It’s not just a seasonal program; it’s a year-round commitment to growth on and off the field,” says Eduardo Caturla, LaLiga Vermont technical director. “We develop well-rounded athletes who are ready to take on the challenges of college and professional soccer.”

A key component of the program is its participation in high-profile events. These events, often attended by scouts and college recruiters from across the country, allow players to showcase their skills and access opportunities beyond high school. “These events are critical,” says Mr. Caturla. “They give our athletes the chance to compete with top-tier talent and connect with coaches who are looking for players with the technical ability and mindset to succeed at the next level.” Recent participants have submitted multiple applications for spots on National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) teams.

In addition to the high-profile events across New England, the LaLiga Vermont program also participated in the prestigious FindMe Showcase in Montreal, Saint-Laurent on January 17-19 and January 24-26, 2025. Held at a top-tier facility, the showcase brought together elite soccer players from around the region to compete in a series of matches designed to test skill, fitness, and tactical understanding. Over the course of the event, players were able to compete in three high-intensity games, each offering valuable exposure to scouts and recruiters from NCAA programs. The opportunity to showcase their abilities in front of a diverse group of talent scouts allowed many LaLiga Vermont athletes to gain attention from colleges looking for top-tier players.

For Vermont Academy students involved in the program, the benefits extend beyond the field. “The coaching here is unmatched,” says Alonso Serrano Martinez ’25, a center fielder and participant in the program. “They have helped me grow not only as a player, but as a leader. The exposure we get through these events is incredible and has opened doors for colleges I never thought possible.” With its structured training program, focus on individual and team growth, and unparalleled access to elite soccer networks, the LaLiga Vermont program continues to set a high standard. It is a testament to Vermont Academy’s commitment to fostering excellence and preparing its students for success in all areas of life.
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Vermont Academy is a coed college preparatory boarding and day school in southern Vermont, serving grades 9-12 plus a postgraduate year.