We recently caught up with five alumni from the Soccer Institute at Montverde Academy (SIMA) who are about to make a run in the playoffs with their United Soccer League (USL) teams. 

Hassan Ndam ’17 currently plays for the New York Red Bulls and credits Montverde Academy (MVA) and the SIMA program for some of his most dramatic development which has helped with his transition into the culture of professional soccer. Ndam elaborated on the differences between his first and second season in the league and how it compared to his first two years at Montverde Academy. 

“The first year was hard because there was a different system of play and the pace of the game was different and I also had to learn to live by myself. The second year I became more mature and was more focused. My team went to the playoffs twice and I’m very thankful for that. I am proud to have gone to Montverde which helped me learn English and communicate with teachers and coaches. It taught me how to handle these hard situations at a young age. SIMA taught me that I was a student-athlete and that academics come first. I got my high school degree from Montverde Academy and I can keep doing big things after my soccer career ends or incase I get injured. Thank you La Familia,” said Ndam.

Albert Dikwa ’17, originally from Cameroon, plays for Saint Louis FC. Dikwa was involved in community service throughout his time at Montverde Academy, along with other students. He learned how this work allows for the growth of a relationship with the community which he has found to be valuable in Saint Louis. 

“My connection with Saint Louis people is something special. Since the first day it felt like home. They welcome me by giving me love, respect and attention.  Being the first group to make the playoffs with that team is legendary. And I can say the one who deserved it are the fans. They were unbelievable this season. Even in the rain or sun they are always supporting us. I’m grateful for that. And I hope we can continue to give them more happiness,” said Dikwa.

Matheus Silva ’15 plays for the Swope Park Rangers in Kansas. Silva shares how Montverde Academy and the SIMA program prepared him for the transition from Brazil to professional soccer. 

“Kansas has a big football culture and I was surprised with the crowds supporting Kansas City. The city itself is nice, you can easily find things to do depending on what you are interested in. It helped me in many ways like time management, having a positive influence on the community, not only on the field but off as well. It is exciting times and all the work throughout the season has brought us to now and we take one step at a time with our eyes and mind on the championship,” said Silva.

Pemi Moumbagna, from Cameroon, highlights the transition from Montverde Academy to Bethlehem Steel FC and what he has learned along the way.

“It has been an incredible journey for me. The hardest thing when I got to Philadelphia was to settle myself into the squad even if I have practiced with them during the preseason it wasn’t easy, because everything goes quickly, and you have to follow the rhythm. As you know, signing your first professional contract at 18 is something seldom, and I can’t be more thankful to the coaches for giving the opportunity. I can’t really say that I have found something easy in this transition. I have been working since I got here, and again nothing comes easy in life. I’m so glad we’ve made the playoffs, and now the work continues. I think we have to stay focused on Saturday’s game against Pittsburgh and try to get the win,” said Moumbaga. 

Michee Ngalina, from the Congo, signed at a very young age to play for the Bethlehem Steel FC with SIMA teammate Moumbagna. 

“Signing pro at the age of 18 is one of the biggest things that has happened to me. I’m proud that my team has made it to the playoffs. It has been a great experience to be a member of this team, but at the same time, I miss my family at MVA. I miss SIMA and the coaches,” said Ngalina.