The Soccer Institute at Montverde Academy (SIMA) is a program filled with driven student-athletes who explore their passion for sport through daily training sessions. However, two student-athletes exhibit more than just talent in soccer, they are dual sport athletes at Montverde Academy.

SIMA’s Armani Grimaud, a junior, is more than just a left back on the field, he is currently ranked third in the region on the track, running a 2:01 in the 800 meters. Armani is also a member of the 4x800 meter relay team and has advanced to Regionals for both personal and team events. At the FHSAA 2A District 8 meet on April 12, Armani competed not only in the 800 meter and 4x800 meter relay but also the 4x400 meter relay placing second and competed in the long jump.

SIMA senior goalkeeper Joao Freire is a reliable tender in the net but has also recently won a gold medal in the teen 18-19, 198-pound class in the Classic Raw division at the 2019 AAPF National Powerlifting Championships. Joao’s best lift was a 485-pound deadlift, nearly half a ton, and qualified him for the AWPC World Powerlifting Championships.

With the help of coaches and staff, SIMA and Montverde Academy student-athletes are able to follow their passions. With so many options offered through academics, clubs and athletics, there are many passions to discover and pursue.