Academy

Football: Style of Play

More Than Footballers
At the academy at San Diego FC, our commitment goes beyond the pitch. As part of the global ‘Right to Dream’ group, we believe football has the power to unlock opportunity, build character, and shape future leaders. We see the game not only as a path to performance, but as a platform for personal development. Our aim is to identify and nurture potential – where football is central, but with major focus on character and academics. That commitment underpins every decision we make.

We measure success by progress, not points. Our focus is long-term player growth — technically, tactically, mentally, physically and emotionally. Mistakes are embraced as learning moments and as an opportunity to grow. We believe in development before outcome, and values before victory.

Our mission is to develop and deliver a world-class talent development environment, where we provide opportunities for student-athletes to flourish on and off the pitch. We aim to 'win deep', with our core approach centering on the belief that excellence can be found everywhere, and that the right environment and opportunities are crucial in shaping individuals. With that we aim to achieve lasting influence, shape character, and leave a positive legacy that extends beyond the final whistle.

A global standard, and a San Diego club
We proudly represent the ‘Right to Dream’ family — a global network of academies and clubs in Ghana, Egypt, Denmark, and now, San Diego. While we share a common methodology rooted in football, character, and education, we celebrate local identity. Our playing style reflects the ambition, diversity, and energy of San Diego. We aim to produce players who are globally competitive and locally proud.

Our Style of Play

Our style of play reflects our values, our ambition, and our belief in football. We aim to impact the game through intelligence and rhythm. Our approach is defined by four key ‘Style of Play Values’:

Goal-Oriented
In possession, the goal is to score goals, create chances and get in positions, to create goal chances in the Dangerzone. When the opposing team has possession, the goal is, as soon as possible, to win the ball back
Intense
To play at high speed with and without the ball in order to reduce the opposing team’s time on the ball and thereby put them under pressure in as many situations as possible
In Command of the Play
The goal is to play with initiative and find solutions for all possible situations in the game, constructively both with and without the ball.
Effective
Play clear and focused in all actions with and without the ball, scoring goals and preventing goals being scored against us.

Our football is:

Constructive – We build with intent and composure.
Organized – Players understand principles and roles in every situation.
Systematic – Creativity is encouraged, but within a clear game model.
Collective – Our strength lies in unity. Playing, pressing and moving as one.
Keep the ball in play – Our aim is to minimize stoppages, avoiding delays, and maintaining rhythm and impacting the flow.

This is football that is expressive, disciplined, and driven by principles. We want to train and play – always with purpose.

Coaching style

We don’t just coach drills — we coach people. Our coaches act as mentors, facilitators, and role models. They are trained to teach through inquiry, to create psychologically safe environments, and to see each player as a full person. We foster trust, curiosity, and high standards. Our coaching philosophy is aligned across football, education, and character – ensuring every player gets the support they need to thrive. We deliver football specific training sessions approximately 5 times per week supplemented with 1-2 games, including friendlies and MLS Next. We also believe in the power of other physical activity to aid long-term athletic development, e.g. martial arts and yoga.

Competitions and Matches

SDFC Right to Dream Academy will compete in the MLS NEXT Tournaments and will also be participating in additional matches and tournaments against diverse opponents to aid development. Make sure to check back for the most updated schedule.

MLS NEXT Regular Season Schedule can be found here.

San Diego Youth Soccer Partners

Youth clubs are trusted partners in the San Diego Youth Soccer Initiative, playing a vital role in shaping the region’s football ecosystem. By identifying and developing talent in their communities, they help create clear and collaborative pathways for players, coaches and clubs. Clubs serve as community anchors—hosting engagement moments and driving local connection. Most importantly, by aligning with shared values and a common football vision, youth clubs help raise the collective standard of the game across San Diego.

San Diego FC’s Right to Dream Partners