Earlier this summer, two Academy Affiliate players from Sporting JB Marine were selected to take part in the Generation Adidas International Select Program. Shortly after being recognized at a Sporting KC home match for this tremendous accomplishment, Maria Haro and Holly Schneider joined an exclusive group of top female players from across the country for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with FFC Frankfurt, one of the premier women’s professional clubs in Germany.
Thirty-two players from across the United States were chosen by Generation Adidas and split into two teams, with Holly and Maria being paired on the same team. Both Sporting JB Marine players earned starting spots from day one, as they showcased their skills over the course of the first two days which included multiple intense training sessions each day. With a few team practices under their belts, day three brought the opportunity to play against the FFC Frankfurt’s Academy teams. In the well fought match Holly delivered two assists and a goal helping her team secure the win. In addition to training and their first match, players enjoyed their down time exploring the local community and even got to attend one of FFC Frankfurt’s professional matches.
Holly Schneider commented on the experience, highlighting “It was an incredible experience training with some of the top talent from across the USA, playing matches against the top German academy teams, while also getting to tour the historic city of Wurzburg.”
As the trip continued, the Generation Adidas teams trained for two more days in preparation for their final match against FC Kalbach. Holly and Maria were especially strong in the final match, which ultimately lead to another victory for their team. Holly tallied two assists in the match, one of which included combining with her Sporting JB Marine SC teammate Maria, whom after earning an assist of her own found herself on the end of a fantastic goal following some exquisite combination play.
“Traveling to a new country and being able to play a new style of soccer is something I’ll never forget,” added Maria. “Meeting new girls from different cultures, while playing with different talent levels and styles was eye-opening, and experiencing that electric environment at the Frankfurt match was something I’ll keep with me for a long time!”
To learn about future opportunities for other Academy Affiliate players to get involved in this program, please follow the Sporting Club Network on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
