Next 11 U15 Boys Battle to Zombie Cup Final

Next 11 Academy’s U15 Boys team made an impressive run to the finals at the St. Francis Zombie Cup, showcasing their determination and adaptability over three days of intense competition.

Their journey began on Friday, where they faced off against the experienced Indy Premier SC St. Francis Premier 2010B Blue team. Despite a challenging start and a 6-1 loss, the boys regrouped and set their sights on improving their performance in the remaining games.

On Saturday, they went up against Delaware County Futbol Club in a match that demonstrated their fighting spirit, ending in a hard-earned 2-2 draw. With this result, they kept their chances alive, understanding that the next game would be crucial for a spot in the finals.

Sunday morning brought the pivotal showdown with Dynamo FC 2010 Boys Red. Next 11 Academy rose to the occasion, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory that booked them a place in the championship game. Their perseverance and teamwork had paid off, and they prepared to face Indy Premier again with renewed determination.

In the final match on Sunday afternoon, they battled Indy Premier once more, determined to cap off the tournament with a strong performance. Their journey to the finals highlighted the resilience, growth, and competitive spirit that Next 11 Academy demonstrated throughout the weekend.

Next Academy Inc. Unveils Plans for Community-Focused Sports and Learning Hub

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA (October 3, 2024) – Next Academy Inc., an Indiana 501c3 nonprofit organization, has entered into an agreement with MSD Wayne Township to establish a multifunctional educational and recreational community facility on land parcels near Ben Davis High School. Next Academy Inc. plans to use this space to support Next 11 Academy, its flagship soccer program, alongside other non-sports programs. The envisioned facilities will include an indoor soccer facility, a stadium with a grandstand, and a community campus with meeting rooms, and event spaces.

Next Academy Inc. is committed to uplifting Indianapolis youth by offering a wide range of programs in sports, arts, and entrepreneurship. The organization’s mission is to break down systemic barriers and offer access to crucial programs that foster personal growth and success across multiple industries. Next 11 Academy, the organization’s soccer program, is committed to inclusivity and breaking down the pay-to-play model prevalent in youth soccer. Next Academy Inc. is deeply rooted in underserved spaces, ensuring children are mentally prepared to conquer challenges. The goal is to equip youth with the best resources available, enabling them to pursue their dreams within their communities.

Tamba Samba is the founder and leader of Next Academy Inc. Samba’s vision for the organization was shaped by his own challenges growing up as a soccer player with few opportunities. Having fled Liberia during the civil war in 1990, Tamba’s family resettled in Bloomington, Indiana, where he developed a deep love for soccer within a diverse international community. When his family moved to the Westside of Indianapolis he joined the Ben Davis Spirit travel team. When the program dissolved, he along with many players were left with no competitive options.

After years of playing at a lower level, Tamba was fortunate enough to find a travel team in high school when it mattered most. The leagues and tournaments the team competed in put him in front of the nation’s best college soccer programs, eventually earning him a soccer scholarship at the University of Notre Dame. Tamba knew that many kids were not as fortunate. After playing four years for the Fighting Irish and a brief stint pursuing a professional contract in Norway, Tamba fully understood the impact of playing travel soccer. Without that opportunity, his path to Notre Dame and the life experiences that followed may not have been possible.

Tamba has since returned to the Westside of Indianapolis, where he lives and works as a UX Design Lead for Salesforce. Recognizing the same lack of youth soccer and other opportunities, Tamba was determined to make a difference. He partnered with Lauren and Jrue Holiday to create Next Academy Inc.

Working alongside Samba, former teammate and friend Lauren Holiday (Cheney) and her husband, two-time NBA Champion and Olympic gold medalist Jrue Holiday, have made it their philanthropic mission to support Next Academy Inc. Growing up in the same community as Samba, Lauren shares a common passion for soccer and an understanding of the challenges faced by aspiring athletes. Her journey took her from playing on local fields to achieving extraordinary heights as a World Cup winner, Olympic gold medalist, and a celebrated figure in the U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame.

“This collaboration holds a special place in my heart as it directly impacts the place and people who supported me through my developmental years,” Holiday said. “It’s a full-circle moment, allowing me to use my experience to create opportunities for young talents in my hometown.”

Next Academy Inc.’s plans include advanced facility upgrades that support innovative youth programs. These enhancements are intended to maximize the potential of the land, creating a vibrant community hub that benefits both participants and the wider community.

Next Academy Inc. will occupy multiple acres of undeveloped land on what is currently known as Wayne Sports Park, at 7550 W. 21st Street in Indianapolis. Next Academy Inc. is uniquely positioned to utilize this space to address the immediate recreational and educational needs of the community while also laying the foundation for sustainable growth and development. This project represents their promise to build an organization that prioritizes excellence, ensuring that the new facility and Wayne Township become a premier destination for youth education and sports.

Superintendent of MSD Wayne Township, Dr. Jeff Butts, expressed excitement about the positive impact this project will have on local youth.

“I have always believed in the valuable lessons learned through sport. As Superintendent of Schools, I could not be more excited that these amazing Ben Davis alumni are making such a significant contribution back to their community. As the Chairman of the Wayne Sports Park Board, I am extremely excited for the opportunities this will provide to our youth on the Westside of Indianapolis. As the President of Indy Gateway, the Next Academy’s investment in our community will be an economic driver for local hotels, restaurants, and businesses. And as a resident, the improvements this will bring to the corner of 21st Street and Girls School Road will make Wayne Township an even better place to live and raise a family,” Butts said.

Follow along with Next Academy Inc. as they bring this vision of a community-focused hub to life. Learn more and get involved at www.next11academy.com/facility.

About Next Academy Inc.

Next Academy Inc. is passionately dedicated to empowering the youth of Indianapolis by providing diverse opportunities in sports, arts, entrepreneurship, and coding. The organization’s mission is to break down systemic barriers and offer access to crucial programs, fostering personal growth and success in specific industries. Next 11 Academy, the organization’s flagship soccer program, committed to inclusivity, Next Academy immerses within the spaces that are often overlooked, ensuring children are mentally prepared to conquer challenges. The goal is to equip youth with the best resources available, enabling them to pursue their dreams within their communities. 

Next 11 Academy Shines at Indy Premier Cup

We are thrilled to celebrate the success of our teams at the Indy Premier Cup, hosted at the Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Indiana. This event, held on world-class grass and turf fields, drew over 170 teams in 2023, offering a competitive and fun experience for players of all levels.

A huge congratulations to our U11 boys team for bringing home Next 11 Academy’s first-ever tournament trophy! Under the guidance of Coach Victor Igbekoyi, the team showed impressive skill and teamwork, facing strong competition from Carmel FC, Boilers FC, Indy Premier, and USA. This is a great achievement at the start of our second year, and we couldn’t be prouder.

Our U13 team, led by Coach Les Claxon, also put on a stellar performance, making it to the championship game. Although they came up just short against Westside United, the team’s effort and determination throughout the tournament were remarkable.

A big thank you to all our players, coaches, and families for your hard work and support. We look forward to many more successes on and off the field!

Next 11 Academy at the 2024 Indy Burn Cup!

The Next 11 Academy teams are gearing up for the 2024 Indy Burn Cup, happening on April 12-14 in Indianapolis, IN. This event is a key highlight for our U8, U9 Navy, U10, and U14 teams, providing them with a fantastic chance to show their skills against local teams.

The tournament is known for its friendly competition, with each age group playing in formats tailored to provide the best experience. It's designed to ensure every player, regardless of age, has a great time while fostering their love for soccer.

For those attending, staying informed is crucial. The Indy Burn Cup website offers all the necessary information, including schedules and maps, to help navigate the tournament effortlessly.

This event promises to be memorable for players, parents, and coaches alike. It's not just about soccer; it's about the community coming together to support these young athletes as they engage in the sport they love. We're looking forward to a weekend filled with excitement, learning, and sportsmanship.

For more detailed information about the tournament, including the competition format and eligibility, visit the Indy Burn Cup website. Let's support the Next 11 Academy and enjoy a great weekend of soccer!

Tournament Snapshot

• Dates: April 12-14, 2024

• Location: Indianapolis, IN

• Teams Playing: U8, U9 Navy, U10, U14

• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with schedules and maps to navigate the tournament smoothly. The Indy Burn Cup website is your go-to source for the latest updates.

Season Kicks Off for Next 11 Academy! Spring Tournament Highlight

Spring is in the air, and for the Next 11 Academy soccer teams, that means it's time to lace up and hit the field for an exciting lineup of tournaments! From March to May, our teams will be showcasing their skills across various venues in Indianapolis. Here's a quick rundown of what's on the schedule:

Indiana Fire Turf Classic

• Dates: March 15-18, 2024

• Location: Grand Park (Indoors with cleats)

• Organizer: Indiana Fire Jr.

• Website:

Kick off the season with the Indiana Fire Turf Classic! Hosted indoors at Grand Park, this tournament promises fast-paced action on top-notch turf fields. It's a great opportunity for our U9 Gold, U10, U12 teams to shine early in the season.

GAME SCHEDULES
TOURNAMENT WEBSITE
PHOTOS/VIDEOS - COMING SOON
RESULTS - COMING SOON

Indy Burn Cup

• Dates: April 12-14, 2024

• Location: TBA

• Organizer: USAi

• Website: 

Next up, the Indy Burn Cup in April brings together teams from across the region for a competitive weekend of soccer. It's a fantastic platform for our players to test their skills against some of the best in the area.

FC Pride Red Lion Invitational

• Dates: April 26-28, 2024

• Location: TBA

• Organizer: FC Pride

• Website:

The FC Pride Red Lion Invitational at the end of April offers another great stage for our teams. Hosted by FC Pride, this event is known for its excellent organization and strong competition, making it a highlight of the spring season.

Siege at St. Francis

• Dates: May 31 - June 2, 2024

• Location: TBA

• Organizer: St. Francis Premier Soccer Club

• Website:

To wrap up the spring, the Siege at St. Francis in early June will see our teams battling it out in what promises to be an epic conclusion to the season. Organized by the St. Francis Premier Soccer Club, this tournament is the perfect finale, offering not just competitive soccer but also a chance to celebrate the season. 

We're excited to support our Next 11 Academy teams as they embark on this spring tournament season. It's going to be a season full of growth, challenges, and, most importantly, fun! Stay tuned for updates, and let's cheer our teams on to success!

Gear Up with Soccer Village

Next 11 Academy Partners with Soccer Village for New Uniform and Fan Gear!

We are thrilled to announce a new partnership that promises to elevate the experience for our players, families, and fans. Soccer Village, based in Carmel, Indiana, has been chosen as the official uniform and fan gear vendor for Next 11 Academy. This collaboration marks a significant step forward, ensuring our members have access to high-quality soccer gear and exclusive Next 11 Academy Nike fan merchandise.

Dependable Local Soccer Store

Soccer Village isn't just a vendor; it's a destination for soccer enthusiasts. Its reputation for quality service and an extensive selection of soccer gear makes it the perfect partner for Next 11 Academy. By teaming up with Soccer Village, we're not just streamlining our uniform ordering process; we're also bringing the academy's spirit closer to our community. Whether you're shopping for official team uniforms or exclusive fan gear, Soccer Village in Carmel is your go-to local soccer store.

Easy Ordering Process

Ordering your Next 11 Academy gear from Soccer Village is a breeze. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth process:

• Start by Creating an Account: Visit Soccervillage.com and click on the “TEAMHUB” logo at the top right. If you're a new user, you'll need to create an account. Remember, the account should be registered by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Your child’s information will be added in the subsequent steps.
  

• Enter Club Group Code: Depending on your team, enter the appropriate Club Group Code (provided by your coach/manager). You'll then need to input your Player, Group, and Team information to ensure your order is correctly assigned.
  

• Select Your Gear: Browse through the available items and select what you need for your uniform. Make sure to pick the right sizes and quantities.
  

• Checkout: Once you've added all your items to the cart, proceed to checkout by clicking the cart icon. You'll then enter your payment information to complete your purchase.
  

• Delivery Options: Choose FREE SHIPPING for pickup at practice, or opt for home delivery at an additional fee.
  

Please note, if you have multiple players in the club, you'll need to place a separate order for each one. This ensures that each order is correctly assigned to the appropriate team.

**Custom items are not returnable. Please double-check the size charts before ordering.

Exclusive Next 11 Academy Nike Fan Gear

In addition to uniforms, don't miss out on the exclusive Next 11 Academy Nike fan gear available through Soccer Village. Show your academy pride with stylish and high-quality Nike merchandise that's perfect for games, practice, or casual wear.

Get Your Gear Today!

Ready to gear up for the upcoming season? Head over to Soccer Village's Team Hub and start your order today. Let's show our pride for Next 11 Academy with top-notch uniforms and fan gear that set us apart on and off the field.

Maximize Your Impact with Next 11 Academy: The Jrue & Lauren Holiday Dollar-for-Dollar Match Challenge

Update: Thank you to all who made a donation during the challenge. We really appreciate your help! The challenge is now closed but you can still give to the club. Visit our donations page to leave your donation.

We are honored to have Lauren and Jrue Holiday, renowned for their philanthropic endeavors, as our primary matching donors for this campaign. Their commitment to Next Academy, especially in impacting the community where Lauren grew up, is truly inspiring. For every dollar you donate, Lauren and Jrue will match it, doubling the impact of your contribution.

Lauren and Jrue's contribution to Next Academy goes beyond financial support; it is an investment in the future of a community they care deeply about. Their involvement is pivotal in shaping a supportive environment where children can dream big and achieve greater.

Campaign Duration: A Time to Shine

Mark your calendars! This transformative campaign commences on January 1, 2024, and runs until March 31, 2024. This period provides a golden window for both individuals and businesses to contribute and see their generosity magnified.

The Power of Matched Giving

Every dollar you donate will be matched by Jrue and Lauren Holiday. Imagine – your $50 transforms into $100, your $500 turns into $1,000, and your $5,000 escalates to an astonishing $10,000! This matching initiative is a testament to the Holidays' commitment to social change and their trust in the power of collective effort.

Tax Benefits: Your Generosity Rewarded

As an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, every donation you make to Next 11 Academy is tax-deductible. Not only are you contributing to a noble cause, but you are also receiving the benefit of tax relief.

How to Make Your Donation: A Simple Process

Donating is easy and secure. Simply visit our dedicated webpage: Next 11 Academy Donations. Here's a step-by-step guide to make your contribution:

1. Choose Your Donation: Select the amount you wish to donate, up to a maximum of $5,000.

2. Fill the Form: Enter your personal details in our secure donation form.

3. Corporate Donors Welcome: Companies are encouraged to participate. Please include your company name for acknowledgment. If you wish, upload your company logo for recognition on our platform.

4. Tax-Deductible Receipt: Upon donation, you will receive a receipt acknowledging your contribution as tax-deductible.

5. Flexible Donating Options: Opt for a one-time lump sum or divide your donation over the campaign period, as per your convenience.

Why Your Contribution Matters

Your support goes beyond monetary assistance. It empowers Next 11 Academy to:

• Expand our educational programs.

• Enhance our community outreach.

• Foster sustainable development initiatives.

• Strengthen our support networks.

Welcoming New Coaches

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of three exceptional coaches to our team for the upcoming spring season. Each of these coaches brings a unique set of experiences, a passion for soccer, and a strong connection to our community. Let's get to know them better:

Dominic Washington:
Dominic is no stranger to the Ben Davis soccer scene. Currently serving as the head coach of the Ben Davis Girls' soccer team, he brings with him a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the game. As a former Ben Davis soccer and football player, Dominic's roots in the community run deep. He's also a dedicated teacher at Deer Run Elementary in Pike Township school district. This showcases his commitment to both education and sports. His presence and expertise will undoubtedly be an asset to our young athletes. His coaching philosophy is No Grind, No Grit, No Greatness. Dominic pushes his players to learn to be comfortable when in uncomfortable situations.

Angel Torres:
Angel Torres is a proud Ben Davis graduate and a familiar name for those who have followed the Ben Davis Soccer Club. Not only did he lead the club in scoring for three seasons during his playing days, but he has also shown his prowess as a coach over the past three years. Angel's teams consistently ranked among the top finishers. This fall his Ben Davis Reapers team finished as end-of-season tournament champions. Despite a busy life working full-time and being a student, Angel's passion for coaching shines through. We're excited to have him share his knowledge and dedication with our players.

Victor Igbekoyi:
Hailing from Nigeria, Victor has a rich soccer heritage. Victor is a former professional player and joined our coaching staff after his time coaching his sons with Ben Davis Soccer Club. His experience as a professional player in the United Soccer League with North Carolina FC, is sure to inspire and elevate the skills of our young talents. We are fortunate to have his international perspective and professional insights within our coaching team.

The common thread that ties these coaches together is their connection to the Ben Davis community and their shared passion for soccer. We believe that their presence will not only enhance our players' skills but also contribute to the sense of belonging and unity within Next 11 Academy.

As we gear up for the spring season, we eagerly anticipate the positive impact that Dominic, Angel, and Victor will have on our young athletes. Join us in welcoming them to our Next 11 Academy family, and let's make this upcoming season one to remember!

Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser

Support Next 11 Academy with Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser!

Are you a fan of gourmet popcorn? Would you like to help make youth soccer more accessible to families? We've got a delicious and rewarding way for you to get involved! Next 11 Academy is excited to introduce our Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser.

Why Support Next 11 Academy?
Youth soccer can be expensive, with the costs of equipment, travel, and coaching adding up quickly. However, at Next 11 Academy, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of travel soccer. Through fundraisers and grants, we work tirelessly to lower the cost of participation, ensuring that more families can access this fantastic sport.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enjoy fantastic gourmet popcorn while also making a difference in the lives of young soccer players.

How Can You Contribute?
It's easy! By participating in our Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser, you can make a real difference in the lives of aspiring young soccer players. Here's how:

• Click on the Link: Visit our fundraiser page, and you'll be directed to the Double Good Popcorn ordering platform.

• Place Your Order: Select your favorite popcorn flavors and make your purchase right there on the platform. You'll be delighted to know that your order will be delivered directly to your doorstep in just a few days.

• Support Our Mission: With every purchase, a percentage of the proceeds will go towards supporting Next 11 Academy's mission to make youth soccer more accessible. Your contribution will directly impact young athletes and their families.

Spread the Word!
Help us make this fundraiser a great success by sharing the link with your friends and family. The more orders we receive, the more we can support our mission and give more kids the chance to play travel soccer. Click the link, place your order, and let's score big for Next 11 Academy!

Next 11 Academy Night

We are excited to team up with Indy 11 and IBEW Local Union 481 to allow our players to be recognized at their upcoming match on Saturday the 30th. Join us for an unforgettable evening with the Indy Eleven, where your players and their families can be part of the excitement – and the best part? The players will be recognized during the game.

Prepare for an evening filled with soccer magic alongside the Indy Eleven. Your players will have the chance to experience the thrill of a professional soccer game, and the whole family is invited to share in the excitement.

One of the most exciting parts of the evening is when our young players will be introduced during the game. It's a moment that will surely make them feel like true soccer stars.

Participating in this memorable event is a breeze. Just complete a simple form, and we'll let you know if you've scored a ticket. Hurry, though, because tickets are limited, and we want to make sure all our dedicated players and their families have a chance to join in the fun.

To show our team spirit and unity, we kindly request that all players attend the game wearing their soccer uniform tops.

Two tickets will be allocated to everyone who registers. If there are remaining tickets we will then try to honor your ticket request on a first-come, first-served basis.

So, parents, mark your calendars and get ready for an evening of soccer excitement with the Indy Eleven. We can't wait to see you there and create lasting memories together!

Chick-Fil-A Fundraiser

We hope this message finds you well! We have an exciting opportunity for you to support our club while indulging in some delicious food – it's a win-win!

We're thrilled to announce that we've partnered with Chick-fil-A for a special fundraiser. By enjoying a meal at Chick-fil-A in Avon US Highway 36, you're not only treating your taste buds but also helping us raise funds for our academy.

Chick-fil-A is not just about great food; they're also dedicated to supporting local communities and organizations like ours. So, when you dine at Chick-fil-A, you're directly contributing to our club's growth and development.

Head over to your nearest Chick-fil-A location on Thursday September 14 between 6:00pm and 10:00pm. Be sure to mention Next11 Academy when you place your order or use the designated code at the drive-thru or checkout.

We encourage you to invite your friends, family, and fellow soccer fans to join us at Chick-fil-A on Thursday September 14. The more, the merrier! Let's make this fundraiser a huge success.

Your support means the world to us, and we couldn't do it without you. So, mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and let's savor some Chick-fil-A together while helping our Next11 Academy thrive.

Thank you for being part of our soccer family and for your continued support. We can't wait to see you there!

Next 11 Academy's Debut at the 2023 Habig Classic Soccer Tournament!

Hey there, soccer fans and proud parents of the Next 11 Academy players! Our academy is gearing up for its very first tournament appearance this weekend at the 2023 Habig Classic. This event promises a weekend filled with soccer magic, teamwork, and the thrill of competition. We've got all the details you need to get ready for this memorable weekend.

This inaugural appearance at the Habig Classic is a milestone for Next 11 Academy, and we can't wait to witness our players' passion and dedication shine on the field. Mark your calendars for August 26-27, 2023, and be ready to support our young talents as they embark on this thrilling soccer journey. Check back here for updates about the weekend, game results, and all the unforgettable moments that the Habig Classic will bring. We're excited, and we know you are too

[U12 SCHEDULE ] [U9/U10 SCHEDULE]

Event Details

• Dates: August 26, 2023 - August 27, 2023

• Time: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Location: Habig Soccer Complex, Westfield, Indiana

• Habig Soccer Complex: 15600 Carey Road, Westfield, Indiana

• Hoosier FC Complex: 6910 E. 161st Street, Noblesville, Indiana

• Presented By: Hoosier FC

• Price: Free – Come cheer for our young talents!

Field Map