The U14 team enters the season with a new Head Coach in Rodrigo Lopez, who now steps into a full-time coaching position with the Academy. Lopez – Republic FC’s first-ever signing – retired from a 22-year playing career at the conclusion of the 2025 season. He has been training youth players in the region for decades, and brings familiarity of the club and its Academy system to the position.
“RoRo brings the experience of being a professional player, along with so much professional experience with this club,” said Academy Director Eder Quintanilla. “In a short period of time, he has already made a tremendous impact. I’m very excited about this group and seeing RoRo continue to lead them. His experience and understanding of the game, combined with his ability to connect with the players, will be extremely valuable for their development.”
For the players, the season will be another important step in their development.
“For the U14s, success will be about continuing to challenge the players with a high level of competition while helping each player develop technically, tactically, mentally and personally,” said Eder Quintanilla. “We want them to compete every weekend, learn from every experience and finish the season as better players and better people. We also want them to enjoy the journey and create great memories together as a team.”
The team also heads into the season with several players who have already gained experience in Republic FC’s Academy after featuring for the U13s last year. That team dominated the league with a 19-1-1 record, and a +3 goal differential in 14 games. They reached the MLS NEXT Cup for the first time in club history, where they made an impressive run to the Round of 16. Several local clubs are represented among this year’s team, including: Sac United, San Juan SC, Folsom Surf, Placer United, Elk Grove United, and El Dorado Hills Soccer Club.
Quintanilla continued, “Having so many returning players gives this group a great foundation. They already understand the expectations, the environment and what it means to be part of our Academy. That familiarity creates continuity and allows the team to start the season with a strong level of understanding and chemistry. At the same time, the new additions bring new qualities and competition for places, which can raise the level of the entire group.”
