Daytona, Fla. (Mar. 26, 2024) -After a challenging two weeks, the Boys National Basketball team concluded their journey at the Grind Session World Championship. Kicking off in Las Vegas, they quickly made their mark with early wins, notably against Winston-Salem Christian National, edging them out 72-68. This season, the team notched over 25 wins for the second consecutive year, highlighting the program’s growth and its success in securing back-to-back winning seasons against top national teams.
Transitioning to Chicago for the semifinals, the Boys National squad faced Dream City Christian. Despite a hard-fought battle, DME would lose to Dream City, with the final score reading 54-72.
Throughout the tournament, DME Academy’s players showcased exceptional skill and dedication. Savo Drezgic’s performance in the semifinals was particularly noteworthy, with a stat line of 19 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals, highlighting his pivotal role in the team’s efforts. Moustapha Thiam’s contributions during their tournament run was also notable, where he averaged 23.5 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game, demonstrating his significant impact on both ends of the court.
The team’s collective achievements received well-deserved recognition. Jaylen Robinson and Savo Drezgic were named to the All-Grind Session Team, a testament to their outstanding performances throughout the tournament. Moustapha Thiam was honored with a spot on the All-Defensive Team, emphasizing his defensive prowess.
Additionally, Babatunde Durodola and Savo Drezgic’s skills were acknowledged on an international scale, with both players earning spots among the Top 5 International Players “FIBA 5,” highlighting their global impact.
Despite the conclusion of their journey in the semifinals, DME Academy’s campaign in the Grind Session World Championships was characterized by teamwork, grit and standout individual performances, and camaraderie that navigated the challenges of a highly competitive tournament. Their efforts not only showcased the depth of talent within the team but also set a solid foundation for future successes.
To learn more about DME Academy’s prestigious men’s basketball program, click here.
As March Madness grips basketball fans across the country, it’s a moment of pride for us at DME Academy to watch our alumni compete at the collegiate level. This year, we’re thrilled to see our men and women making waves in the NCAA Tournament, affirming our dedication to comprehensive development that mirrors the intensity of college-level competition.
DME Alumni in the NCAA Tournament:
At DME Academy, we prepare student-athletes for the academic rigor and athletic demands of collegiate programs. Our academy is built on the pillars of academic excellence, personal growth, and athletic competitiveness, fostering resilience and ambition in our students.
Seeing our alums excel in the NCAA Tournament spotlights the powerful blend of community support, expert coaching, and educational guidance they embraced at DME Academy. Their achievements underscore our unwavering dedication to fostering the growth of every student-athlete, propelling them toward success in athletics and life beyond.
If you are dreaming of competing at the next level and achieving academic success, DME Academy offers the foundation you need. Join us and begin your journey to becoming a well-rounded individual ready to tackle the challenges of college athletics and beyond. Discover more about how DME Academy can be part of your path to success. Click here to get started.
Finding the right summer sports camp is crucial to your child’s athletic and personal development. At DME Academy, our programs are specifically designed to nurture each athlete’s potential, providing a comprehensive and enriching experience that extends beyond just sports training.
At DME Academy, we recognize the unique goals and interests of each young athlete. Our camp offerings span various sports, including basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball, and more. Tailored to meet athletes at every level, from beginners to advanced competitors, our camps ensure focused attention and skill development for everyone.
DME Academy Summer Camps Available in 2024:
Volleyball Gold Medal Square Camp
Lacrosse Camp powered by System Eighty-One
DME Competitive Summer Prep Camps:
Expert Coaching and World-Class Facilities
Our dedicated coaches bring their passion and expertise to our top-notch facilities, fostering an environment where young athletes can challenge themselves and excel. With access to professional training and insights, participants are empowered to reach new milestones in their athletic journeys.
Beyond the Field
We believe in the power of sports to teach valuable life lessons. Our camps emphasize values like resilience, leadership, and teamwork, creating a nurturing atmosphere for athletes to develop not just physically but also as well-rounded individuals. This approach helps participants to build character, forge lasting friendships, and become part of a supportive community.
The Benefits of Joining a DME Summer Prep Camp:
At DME Academy, we’re committed to providing a transformative summer experience for young athletes. With our comprehensive training programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated coaching staff, we offer the perfect environment for athletes to thrive. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball, or any other sport, our camps focus on honing skills, fostering teamwork, and instilling values that extend beyond the field. Join us this summer and discover the difference at DME Academy! Learn more about our summer offerings by visiting our website.
Daytona, Florida (March 11th, 2024) – In collaboration with the International Development Academy, Adrian Biaggi, a standout from the inaugural soccer class at DME Academy, was named captain of Puerto Rico’s U20 men’s soccer team.
Starting his journey at DME Academy in his senior year from Puerto Rico without prior exposure or offers, Adrian quickly made the most of his opportunity in Daytona. His strong leadership and performance earned him the title of captain. His efforts led to standout performances in front of more than 30 college coaches, securing four NCAA Division 1 and several Division 2 scholarship offers.
After joining the Dayton University men’s team, Adrian’s soccer career continued to flourish, eventually earning him a call-up to the national team. It was here, with Puerto Rico’s U20 team, that his leadership and skill truly shone. During the CONCACAF U20 Championship Tournament he scored within the first 5 minutes against St. Kitts and Nevis in his national team debut, setting the tone for a resounding 5-0 victory.
The team’s journey through Group E faced challenges, including tough matches against the Cayman Islands and Haiti, both ending in 1-1 ties. Despite an early exit from the tournament, Adrian’s future is undeniably bright.
Adrian’s path from DME Academy to becoming the U-20 national team captain exemplifies his hard work, dedication, and the key role that DME and the International Development Academy player in his development. For further details on how DME Academy’s Elite Soccer Program supports athletes like Adrian Biaggi in refining their soccer and leadership skills, click here.
The evolution of sports-focused education has increased its appeal amongst College coaches and Professional scouts. A deepened focus on a holistic approach to personal development has changed the recruiting landscape by preparing high level student-athletes to succeed at the next level. This developing model has produced some of the most recognizable student-athletes in today’s sports. While combining a purposefully academic schedule with a concentration on athletic preparation, student-athletes will now attain the utensils to achieve their personal goals. They will also possess a favorable appeal to all collegiate and professional levels. The experiences and resources that academies provide, will only ensure a greater athlete experience, a pathway towards college eligibility and acceptance while also cultivating personal development.
As the new Director of Athletics and former Director of Soccer, Todd Eason looks to implement a platform within the athletic department that has proven success. The Men’s and Women’s soccer teams have gained recognition on and off the field with the influences that Mr. Eason has implemented. The approach that Eason uses incorporates transparency, accountability and consistency, while facing extreme daily challenges. These three pillars have helped players establish sustained success while creating habits towards personal growth. Holding student-athletes to a higher standard off the playing court/field has allowed individuals to understand the importance of personal values and discipline. Furthermore, Eason’s commitment towards consistency throughout this process has shown his own discipline in valuing person over athlete.
With an understanding and experience in all levels of soccer, Eason’s team culture has provided various paths for his student-athletes and is now the foundation which he leads. His new role as Athletic Director will now provide him the opportunity to share his philosophy across the department and help influence a school identity that will help all programs find success.
Daytona, Fla. (Feb. 27, 2024) -The Eighth Annual Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global Camp, held during the NBA All-Star 2024 Weekend, showcased the talents of emerging young prospects from around the world. Among the 40 high school-aged participants from 22 countries and territories were two standout players from DME Academy: Savos Drezgic of Serbia and Moustapha Thiam from Senegal.
Savos Drezgic distinguished himself on the court, earning a coveted spot on the BWB Global Camp Boys All-Star Team. His exceptional performance across various camp activities, from games to skills sessions, earned him well-deserved recognition. Drezgic has attracted attention from prestigious universities, receiving scholarship offers from California, Arizona State, South Florida, and Stanford while Moustapha Thiam has committed to UCF Knights.
The participation of Drezgic and Thiam underscores DME Academy’s commitment to providing its athletes with opportunities to compete at the highest levels and gain exposure on the international stage. Their success at the camp serves as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the quality of training they receive at DME.
As DME Academy continues to nurture talent and ambition in young athletes, the achievements of Drezgic and Thiam stand as inspiring examples. Congratulations to both players for their outstanding performances and for representing DME Academy with distinction. If you’re inspired by their success and want to explore the opportunities offered by DME Academy, visit our website for more information visit our Admissions Page for more information.
Daytona Beach, FL – In a landmark achievement for DME Academy’s boys’ basketball program, Director Matt Panaggio recently celebrated his 100th career win, a testament to his dedication and innovative coaching methods. Under Panaggio’s guidance, the academy has not only seen significant victories on the court but also substantial player development, contributing to the sport on a global scale.
Reflecting on this milestone, Panaggio shared, “Reaching 100 wins is a collective achievement that speaks volumes about our commitment at DME Academy. It’s about the hard work the players put in every day and the support from our entire coaching staff and the academy. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited for the future.”
The DME Academy basketball program, under Panaggio’s leadership, emphasizes not just athletic excellence but holistic development. This approach has prepared students for success both on and off the court, embodying the academy’s philosophy of building a foundation for life through sports.
Looking ahead, Panaggio is focused on continuing to elevate the program. “Our goal is always to improve, to challenge our limits, and to keep contributing positively to the lives of our student-athletes,” he stated, underscoring his vision for DME Academy’s future.
As Matt Panaggio celebrates this significant achievement, it’s clear that his influence extends far beyond the 100 wins. Through his leadership, DME Academy is setting a standard for excellence in youth basketball development, preparing the next generation of athletes for success in sports and life.
To learn more about DME Academy’s boys basketball program click here.
DAYTONA, FLA. – DME Academy, a premier institution committed to excellence in sports and education, is thrilled to announce significant leadership changes within its athletic programs, effective immediately.
Todd Eason: Director of Athletics
Todd Eason, previously serving as the Director of Soccer, will now take on the role of Director of Athletics. With his communication skills, in-depth knowledge of DME operations, and unwavering commitment to success, Todd is poised to bring a new level of leadership to our athletic programs.
Thales Peterson: Director of Boys Soccer
Thales Peterson, transitioning from Boys Soccer Head Coach, has made a significant impact since joining DME in the summer of 2023. His leadership has not only elevated the boys’ and girls’ programs on the pitch but has also instilled a culture of excellence and mental resilience. Peterson’s dedication to holistic player development aligns seamlessly with DME Academy’s values.
Kioki Hutchings: Director of Girls Soccer
Kioki Hutchings, previously the Assistant Soccer Coach, will now take on the role of Director of Girls Soccer. Hutchings’ unwavering dedication to the success and development of DME soccer players has set him apart. His positive attitude, coaching style, ability to connect with athletes, and connections to clubs and organizations within the sport make him a valuable asset to DME.
Dan Panaggio, Co-founder of DME Academy, expressed his confidence in the leadership transitions, stating, “We are excited about the future of our sports programs under the guidance of these exceptional leaders. Todd, Thales, and Kioki have already proven their commitment to excellence, and we look forward to witnessing the continued success and development of our athletes under their leadership.”
DME Academy invites the community, stakeholders, and supporters to join in congratulating Todd Eason, Thales Peterson, and Kioki Hutchings on their new roles.
As the weekend approaches, DME Academy is gearing up to host an exhilarating lineup of sports events that promise excitement, skill, and fierce competition on their campus in Daytona Beach, Florida. From basketball showdowns to soccer showcases, DME is set to be the epicenter of sports action from Friday, January 12, to Monday, January 15.
The Grind Session Daytona: Elevating High School Basketball on a Global Stage
Kicking off the weekend on Friday, January 12, is The Grind Session Daytona, part of an international winter circuit showcasing elite high school basketball talent. Teams from across the nation and Canada, including powerhouses like DME Academy, Dream City Christian, Fort Erie International Academy, DME Wisconsin, and Utah Prep, will compete in a thrilling display of skill and highlight reel-worthy play. The women’s schedule features equally impressive teams, such as DME Academy, Bella Vista Prep, Elite Prep, and Academy of Central Florida.
The Grind Session’s choice to host one of their premier events at DME reflects the institution’s commitment to excellence. Matt Panaggio, Director of Men’s Basketball at DME, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are honored to be selected as a host site for The Grind Session. It is a testament to the world-class facilities, elite standard, and the competitive culture that defines DME Academy.”
The full event schedule can be found on DME’s instagram. For family, friends and fans who cannot attend The Grind Session Daytona in person, games will be livestreamed on Tanager Sports TV.
DME MLK Classic: A Stage for Elite Post-Grad Men’s Basketball
Simultaneously, the DME MLK Classic will unfold from Saturday, January 13, to Monday, January 15, featuring a men’s basketball tournament that brings together formidable post-graduate teams. Teams in attendance include DME Academy, Academy of Central Florida, IMG Academy, Prestige, Dawg Sports Academy, Star Athlete, and The International Sports Academy. Fans can check out the schedule for Saturday by clicking here, and follow along for updates as the bracket is updated.
Battle at the Beach: A High Exposure Boys Soccer Showcase
Adding a different dimension to the weekend, Battle at the Beach takes place on Saturday, January 13, and Sunday, January 14. This boys’ soccer showcase, set against the backdrop of DME’s pristine turf soccer pitch, welcomes numerous college coaches to campus from esteemed institutions like Newberry College, Georgia Gwinnett College, the University of North Florida, Embry-Riddle, and more.
Teams including DME Academy, DME Sarasota, the Academy of Central Florida, and IdeaSport Soccer Academy will engage in intense competition, providing an intimate, high-exposure event for the U19 players. This showcase underscores DME Academy’s dedication to nurturing talent and providing a platform for players to shine. To watch the action in person, family, friends and fans can view the schedule here.
Beyond the exciting lineup of events, DME Academy offers state-of-the-art athletic facilities that contribute to the overall experience. Nestled in the picturesque location of Daytona Beach, attendees can enjoy not only top-tier sports but also the beautiful, vibrant city. DME’s commitment to elite athletics ensures that each event is not just a competition but an opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills and for spectators to witness sports at its finest.
As the weekend unfolds, DME invites sports enthusiasts, families, and the community to join in the excitement, support the athletes, and be part of an unforgettable weekend filled with passion, skill, and camaraderie.
Follow DME Academy on Instagram for event schedules, updates, and highlights throughout the weekend.
To view all upcoming events at DME Academy, click here.
DME Academy proudly highlights Pedro Baptista Teixeira, a standout men’s basketball player on the High School Blue team. Recently, Pedro achieved a significant milestone by securing an interview with the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) admissions team. This accomplishment not only reflects Pedro’s individual excellence but also underscores DME Academy’s commitment to preparing students for success, both academically and athletically.
Pedro, the point guard for the High School Blue basketball team, embodies the qualities that define a DME Academy student-athlete. Described as extremely driven, highly intelligent, and an outstanding person by teachers and coaches, Pedro excels not only on the court but also in the classroom. His commitment to a challenging course load, including dual enrollment and advanced placement (AP) classes in math and science, showcases his dedication to academic excellence.
Infinitum Sports, a consulting agency dedicated to supporting international talent, recognized Pedro’s great potential and assisted with his recruitment to DME. Hailing from Portugal, Pedro’s journey to the High School Blue team brings a global perspective to the academy, further enriching the institution’s cultural diversity. Beyond being a talented athlete, Pedro’s accomplishments transcend borders, exemplifying his commitment to personal growth and success.
Even with his responsibilities in the classroom and on the court, Pedro has demonstrated extraordinary commitment by finding time to help tutor classmates and serve as a translator for Portuguese-speaking students whose English is still developing. In short, he epitomizes what DME Academy looks for in a student—someone who not only excels academically and athletically but also contributes to the supportive community ethos.
The MIT admissions process, known for its rigor, included a personal interview conducted over a Zoom call. Pedro, in collaboration with Dave Swebilius, DME Academy’s College & Career Advisor, meticulously prepared for this crucial step. His extensive research into MIT’s website, student newspaper, and student experiences reflects not only Pedro’s determination but also his passion for articulating why MIT is the ideal destination for his academic aspirations.
A unique dimension is added to Pedro’s journey with his familial connection to MIT—his father being an MIT alumnus. This connection underscores the continuation of a legacy and exemplifies Pedro’s aspirations to follow in his family’s footsteps by pursuing academic excellence at a renowned institution.
As Pedro, his family, and the entire DME Community eagerly await MIT’s decision, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. Dave Swebilius stated, “Pedro’s opportunities show what can happen when one recognizes their talents and puts in the hard work to achieve their goals.”
Pedro’s story is a shining example of DME Academy’s commitment to preparing students for success both on and off the court. If you’re inspired by Pedro’s journey and want to explore the opportunities DME Academy offers, visit our Admissions Page for more information.
