Republic FC’s youth development teams are back in action following a two-month offseason break, ready to again take the pitch against some of the best players in North America. Coming off a 2021-22 campaign that saw all teams qualify for the postseason, the club’s expectations remain high as they shoot to remain among the best in the nation.
Results
After an exhibition for each squad in Southern California, Sacramento’s U15 and U17 sides got to work against their counterparts from local foe Sacramento United at Granite Regional Park last weekend. Each side took a convincing victory, putting in dominant defensive performances to keep the MLS NEXT newcomers without a score to kick off what could be a hot new youth derby in the region. The U15s took three points in a 5-0 result, and the U17s bested the cross-town club 3-0.
What’s New? What’s the Same?
To further align with the top development academies in the country, Republic FC will field teams in four age groups this season – U13, U14, U15, and U17.
On the competition side, not much changes for Sacramento’s youth sides from last season. The club again will take on a bevy of regional opponents in league play, as well as some high-profile clubs in FLEX competition for an additional shot at playoff qualification next spring. All four squads will take part in a mid-season showcase in December, pitting them against national competition before collegiate and national team coaches.
Who Will Lead the Way
Sacramento’s youth sides will be led by Academy Director Eder Quintanilla, who last season served as the club’s Director of Talent Identification and led the U15 team to the MLS NEXT Cup semifinals. Quintanilla has been with the club for two seasons, and previously coached for the San Jose Earthquakes Academy system, as well as in the player development ranks at historic La Liga club Athletic Bilbao in Spain. Quintanilla will also serve as Head Coach for the club’s U17.
Former Republic FC midfielder Ivan Mirkovic will serve as the Director of Talent Identification and lead the U15 squad. Mirkovic has coached with Sacramento for two seasons, leading Sacramento’s U19 side to MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs in consecutive years, including a semifinal appearance in 2021. Since joining the club’s academy staff, he’s seen 27 players off to the college ranks, and 17 under his tutelage earn academy first-team contracts.
Academy assistant David Jimenez has been promoted to serve as head coach for the U13 side and is looking to lead the new squad back to the top slot as the best team in the nation after a 2021-22 that saw them claim the most points in their age group. Brian Willey, who last season led the top of table U13 squad, will serve as Head Coach for the same group of players as they matriculate to the U14 level. Willey has been with the Academy since its inaugural season in 2015.
