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Command the Ball,
Command the Game

19 Academy Spots Remaining for 2026

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Get to Know ESS Academy

Welcome to ESS Academy, a soccer development academy that believes everyone carries a hidden 'emerald' -their unrealized potential- and is dedicated to helping them unearth it and realize their potential through measurable, data-driven growth. The academy cultivates a culture that marries technical mastery with mental resilience, ensuring players not only survive but excel under elite‑level stress. ESS Academy brings Barça‑inspired methodology and MLS Next‑proven results to athletes committed to a genuine, lasting transformation.

Player training

Academy Philosophy

At ESS Academy intelligent repetition fuels mastery. The academy empowers players with a performance toolbox through intentional data-driven repetition, refined through sessions that fuse relentless practice with reflective learning into a unified development arc. Students are coached to be brave, composed, creative, original and unshakable when the stakes are highest.

Philosophy Visual

Working With Players From

San Jose Earthquakes South Valley United South Valley Chivas Central Valley Premier

Academy Framework

Data-Driven Technical Development

ESS Academy operates on a measurable, evidence-based training model powered by its proprietary data system. Sessions target quantifiable standards aligned directly to ESS Academy's official certification metrics. Student training is supported by monthly performance reports that track growth across every core competency. This is not “drill culture.” This is precise, data-driven development for families serious about measurable improvement.

Certification-Focused Training

Every athlete’s training is focused toward the technical, physical, and cognitive benchmarks required to progress through ESS Academy’s certification program. The training calendar is engineered to build the exact abilities measured in the certification process. Progress is earned, measured, and verified.

Duels (Situational & Limited)

Duels are used selectively to reinforce composure and situational problem-solving. When appropriate, athletes are encouraged to challenge Zachary or other peers to test their execution under stress. While duels are valuable, they are not the core program.

Micro-Scenario Training (Situational & Limited)

Instead of traditional game-related practices or full team sessions, ESS Academy selectively uses short, targeted micro-scenarios designed to improve a specific measurable skill when appropriate. Every scenario has one purpose: strengthen the metrics that matter for certification success.

Small‑Sided Play (Situational & Limited)

Used sparingly and only when group size allows, small-sided play helps athletes apply technical gains under pressure. These sessions are short, intentional, and tied directly to certification elements. While small-sided play is valuable, it is not the core program.

Services

Academy Certification Program

Certificate Certificate

Schedule

Academy Coaches

"Develop Your Mind,
Realize Your Potential"

Coach Zachary is the Founder and Director of ESS Academy, licensed through FC Barcelona & U.S. Soccer. He is currently completing a rigorous professional diploma program with F.C. Barcelona in Soccer Coaching and Game Tactics. He specializes in fusing technical detail and physical prowess with mental mastery to create complete athletes.

Coach

Reviews

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