Daytona, FL. DME Academy is expanding its club soccer programming to Daytona, with official team launch set for the 2026/27 season. This new initiative follows the successful growth of DME Academy’s soccer programs in Sarasota and Tampa and reflects the academy’s broader commitment to athlete development across Florida.
The Daytona club soccer program will launch with tryouts in April/May 2026, preparing for competition in the Fall 2026 season. Ahead of that, DME will host a series of ID clinics beginning in Fall 2025, along with campus-based information sessions for prospective athletes and families.
The Daytona teams will be based at DME Academy’s Daytona campus, providing student-athletes with access to:
Lighted, professional-grade turf fields for training and competition
An on-site performance gym with custom strength and conditioning programs
Recovery tools and performance analytics to support long-term health and development
Experienced coaching staff with collegiate and professional backgrounds
Indoor futsal training space for use during inclement weather
Academic pathways for both commuters and full-time student-athletes
Jared Antista, Director of Soccer Development at DME, shared the vision:
“We’ve established a strong foundation in Sarasota and launched several teams in Tampa. Daytona is the next step in our plan to bring high-performance soccer to more athletes across the state. Our structure, resources, and values are resonating with families who want something more intentional than what traditional club environments provide.”
Dan Panaggio, Co-Founder of DME Academy, added:
“Bringing club soccer to Daytona gives student-athletes in the region access to a proven development model. With our facilities, trainers, and academic options, we’re able to support both athletic and personal growth—something that sets DME apart.”
Details on ID clinics, tryout registration, coaching staff, and program structure will be released in the coming months.
For additional information:
Visit the DME Academy Soccer Page
Learn more about DME Academy’s academic programs
Daytona, FL.
Daytona, FL. GiGi Battle and Chikae Desdunes are entering their senior year at DME Academy with national recognition and momentum.
ESPN’s latest update to the 2026 rankings puts GiGi at #42 and Chikae at #46. These rankings reflect years of consistent growth, discipline, and high-level performance.
GiGi has already passed 1,000 points and 500 rebounds in her high school career. She’s also ranked as the #1 girls basketball player in New Jersey.
Her recruitment includes visits and interest from Michigan, Iowa, Stanford, Illinois, Rutgers, Georgia, and Indiana. GiGi plays with power, finishes through contact, and brings a steady presence in big moments.
Chikae plays a key role at DME and has seen consistent success in the system. She’s now ranked #46 in ESPN’s 2026 rankings.
She holds offers from Colorado, Auburn, Georgia Tech, Oklahoma State, Alabama, Memphis, and Louisiana at Lafayette.
GiGi and Chikae return to lead a group with experience and continuity. The schedule is national, the roster is competitive, and the expectations are high. This team has a real shot to contend for a state title and close out their careers by setting a new standard at DME.
DME Academy helps serious athletes train with purpose, compete against high-level programs, and build a path to the next level. With year-round structure, national exposure, and a staff that understands what it takes, we prepare players to perform when it counts.
Learn more about our program or speak with an advisor today.
Daytona, FL. Two athletes from DME Academy’s girls basketball academy—Micaela Cavalcanti (Brazil) and Lorrie Brown (Cayman Islands)—earned international honors at the 2025 Basketball Without Borders Americas Camp in San Salvador.
This prestigious four-day event brought together top high school-aged female athletes from Latin America, Canada, and the Caribbean. Led by NBA and FIBA players, coaches, and legends, participants received skill training, mentorship, and the opportunity to compete with the region’s best.
Cavalcanti stood out for her skill, leadership, and sportsmanship. She earned the Patrick Baumann Sportsmanship Award and was selected to the All-Star Team, making a strong impression on coaches and peers alike.
Meanwhile, Brown showcased her intensity and defensive presence on the court. Representing the Cayman Islands, she proved she belongs among the top prospects in the Americas. Her performance added to the growing list of DME athletes gaining international recognition.
DME Academy continues to prove itself as one of the top basketball prep schools for girls in the U.S. With elite coaching, a competitive national schedule, and a structured training program, DME helps athletes succeed at the next level—whether that’s college basketball or international play.
Student-athletes at DME train, study, and live in a supportive and structured environment. The academy combines on-court development with academics, nutrition, and mental performance coaching. As a result, every athlete is equipped to grow on and off the court.
DME Academy has helped players like Micaela and Lorrie earn international exposure and prepare for the next level. If you’re looking for a serious girls basketball academy that develops talent and character, start your journey here.
Learn more about our program or speak with an advisor now.
Daytona, FL.Louisville basketball commit Mikel Brown Jr. has been named one of the top eight freshmen to watch for the upcoming 2025–26 college basketball season, according to CBS Sports.
Brown, a 5-star point guard and former standout at DME Academy, was ranked No. 5 on the national list. He joins a group of elite recruits that includes Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Darius Acuff Jr.
Brown is currently ranked as the No. 1 point guard in the class of 2025 by 247Sports and is already generating early buzz for the 2026 NBA Draft.
He committed to Louisville after receiving more than 25 offers from major programs, including Alabama, Kansas, Michigan, Florida, Kentucky, and Tennessee. The Cardinals now add one of the most college-ready guards in the country to a roster with national aspirations.
During his final year at DME Academy, Brown averaged 29.6 points per game. He earned McDonald’s All-American honors, won the 3-Point Contest at the McDonald’s All-American Game, and started for Team USA at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup—averaging 10.3 points and 5.2 assists per game.
His ability to control pace, create scoring opportunities, and take over games has made him a standout at every level. CBS Sports called him “a monumental win” for Louisville and a freshman expected to play a major role right away under head coach Pat Kelsey.
Brown’s development at DME Academy helped shape the player he is today. He competed against top-tier talent, trained in a professional environment, and earned opportunities through consistent, high-level play.
His path reflects what’s possible when talent, work ethic, and the right system come together.
DME Academy has helped athletes like Mikel Brown Jr. sharpen their skills, compete nationally, and prepare for what’s next. If you’re serious about your future, it starts with the right training environment.
Learn more about our program or speak with an advisor today.
Daytona, FL. Yan Diomande’s first goal in La Liga came in the 41st minute of Matchday 35—right foot, center of the box, no hesitation the 18-year-old midfielder, a standout from DME Academy in Florida, helped CD Leganés secure a crucial 3–2 win over Espanyol. With just three games left in the season, every point counts in their battle to avoid relegation.
Diomande’s finish wasn’t just a stat. It earned him a spot on the LaLiga EA Sports Team of the Week. At 18 years old, he’s now made 7 league appearances, 6 as a starter, and he’s helping keep Leganés alive in a tight relegation race. They sit 18th—just one point behind Alavés—with three matches left.
Leganés currently sits 18th in the league standings, just one point behind Alavés. With three games left, every goal—and every player—matters. Diomande’s rise comes at the perfect time.
Before he made his mark in Spain, he trained and developed at DME Academy in Florida. The same place that has helped athletes reach pro clubs, national teams, and top European leagues like La Liga and Serie A.
Before rising on Spain’s professional stage, Diomande trained at DME Academy in Daytona Beach. He honed his technical skills, learned elite-level discipline, and prepared for the kind of high-pressure moments that define a career.
At DME Academy, athletes don’t just dream—they prepare. Diomande’s La Liga goal proves what happens when talent meets the right training environment.
We’re proud to have played a part in Yan Diomande’s journey—and even prouder to see him shine on one of football’s biggest stages. If you’re an aspiring athlete ready to take the next step, the path starts here.
Learn more about DME Academy’s soccer program →
DME Academy expanded its global reach this April with the launch of the Dubai Basketball Showcase. The three-day event attracted top youth athletes from the Middle East, Europe, and other parts of the world.
Held from April 4–6 at Champs Sports Club in Jebel Ali, Dubai, the showcase gave players aged 12 to 18 a rare opportunity. They trained with experienced U.S. coaches and competed in front of American scouts.
gnacio Rodriguez, DME’s international director, led the event. He was joined by co-founder Mike Panaggio and girls head coach Michael Panaggio. Players traveled from countries such as Kuwait, Lebanon, Serbia, and Jordan to attend.
For many, it was their first time being evaluated by coaches from the United States. As one camper explained, “It’s an amazing opportunity to improve as a player and grow as a person.”
World-Class Development, Delivered
The showcase followed a structured daily plan that focused on real development. Each day included:
Skill stations based on position and level
Live scrimmages with coach observation
Team-building sessions to promote communication
One-on-one feedback for personal growth
Because of the event’s focus and intensity, both players and parents noticed how different it felt from other youth basketball camps. It delivered far more than just drills or games.
Scouted by U.S. Coaches and Agents
Unlike most international basketball events, this showcase gave players real exposure to DME Academy’s U.S.-based coaching staff and partner network. Athletes were evaluated for possible placement at DME Academy’s Florida campus, which has produced NCAA players, national team athletes, and professionals around the world.
For many in attendance, it was their first look at the expectations of elite-level competition—and the first time someone from the U.S. was watching.
DME Academy remains committed to identifying and developing international talent. With future showcases planned across Europe and the Middle East, this Dubai event marked a key step in making elite U.S. training more accessible to global athletes.
And for those ready to take the next step, DME Academy’s Summer Prep Camp in Florida is now open for registration.
Open to boys and girls aged 14 to 18, this summer program is built for athletes who want to train, compete, and grow at the highest level. Led by DME’s elite coaching staff—including former pros and college-level coaches—campers will develop their game through:
Two on-court practices per day
Four strength and conditioning sessions each week
Three competitive Florida AAU tournaments
Beach workouts and team-building trips
College campus and facility tours
Optional English immersion classes (limited availability)
Athletes live and train on DME’s state-of-the-art campus, with housing, meals, and everything they need to focus on development, under the Florida sun.
This is more than just a camp. It’s preparation for the next level.
Register Now for Basketball Summer Prep
Daytona, FL.This summer, elite athletes from around the world will arrive at DME Academy to train, compete, and transform their futures. Built for serious athletes who want more, DME’s Summer Prep 2025 offers world-class coaching, pro-level facilities, and a proven path to collegiate and professional success.
At DME, we don’t just train athletes — we build champions. Our alumni include Chloe Kitts (NCAA Champion, South Carolina), Kris Murray (NBA, Sacramento Kings), Mikel Brown (Louisville commit), Yan Diomande (La Liga), and many others who have climbed to the collegiate and pro levels.
Our coaching staff brings experience from the NBA, MLB, pro volleyball, and international soccer. As a result, athletes receive the insight, intensity, and mentorship needed to dominate the next stage of their development.
Stepping onto the DME campus means stepping into an environment built for winners. Our facilities feature pro-grade basketball courts, full-sized outdoor and indoor fields, beach training areas, a private strength and conditioning center, recovery rooms, and film study suites — all designed to match the demands of high-level competition.
At DME, every part of your day is designed to move you forward. From focused skill sessions to competitive training environments, athletes dive deep into sport-specific development, led by expert coaches who know what it takes to reach the next level.
Sharpen your impact on both ends of the floor. Training includes advanced skill work, positional development, strength and agility sessions, and games against top-tier AAU teams.
Refine your technique and raise your tactical IQ. You’ll train across grass, indoor, and beach settings — all designed to mimic the intensity of elite college and international play.
Master every phase of your game. Our coaches focus on serve mechanics, attack transitions, defensive shape, and game-speed decisions — with input from NCAA and pro veterans.
Training is just one part of the DME Summer Prep experience. Athletes sharpen their skills through scrimmages, elite tournaments, and simulated game days — all built to test and accelerate growth.
Even more importantly, we help athletes prepare for what’s next. With college visits, recruiting education, and exposure opportunities, players build the confidence and readiness to compete at the next level.
We also focus on leadership. Through workshops and team-building sessions, athletes strengthen the mindset, discipline, and toughness top programs expect.
If you’re ready to invest in your future and train with the best, DME Academy’s Summer Prep 2025 is waiting for you. Join athletes from around the world. Push your limits. Build your future.
Secure your spot today and take the first step toward reaching your full potential.
Daytona, FL. Eighteen-year-old midfielder Yan Diomande is making waves in Spain’s top division. A product of DME Academy, Diomande has now made five senior appearances for CD Leganés, including three starts in 13 days, as the club fights to avoid relegation from La Liga.
On April 24, he returned to the starting lineup in a 1–1 draw against Girona. That followed a full 90-minute shift against Mallorca and a high-profile start against FC Barcelona earlier in the month.
Yan Diomande’s recent starts in La Liga reflect a growing role inside a club fighting to stay up. Earlier this month, he started against FC Barcelona, matching up against world class competition and showing why Leganés continues to trust him.
“He is a fast player who attacks space well and can hold his own against the likes of Koundé,” said head coach Borja Jiménez ahead of the match.
The performance didn’t go unnoticed in the dressing room either. Veteran midfielder Seydouba Cissé said, “He competes like he trained with the U19 boys. He is a great talent.”
Just weeks before his debut, Diomande was logging U19 minutes. Now, he’s started three matches in 13 days — including a full 90 against Mallorca, 45 against Girona, and a start at home against Barcelona. The leap has been fast, but earned.
Built at DME Academy
Before stepping onto the professional stage in Spain, Yan Diomande spent an important stretch of his development at DME Academy — sharpening his skills, building strong habits, and preparing for the demands of the next level.
His path reflects the kind of preparation and opportunity that DME strives to create for every athlete who walks through its doors.
Now, as CD Leganés pushes through the final stretch of the season, Yan Diomande continues to take important steps forward. At DME Academy, we’re proud to have been part of his journey — and even prouder to watch him succeed on one of football’s biggest stages.
Learn more about DME Academy’s soccer program.
Daytona, FL. DME Academy golfer Charles Ballard delivered a standout performance at a recent Florida junior golf tournament, finishing first in his age group and second overall in the tournament. Across two competitive rounds, Charles shot 74 and 76, closing the weekend with a +12 total and a string of four birdies that highlighted his control and confidence under pressure.
Charles showed consistency from start to finish, navigating tough conditions with poise. His ability to string together birdies and stay mentally locked in across two rounds is a credit to the work he’s putting in behind the scenes. With his runner-up finish, he proved he’s not just participating—he’s contending.
At DME Academy, Charles trains in a system built for serious athletes. Under the guidance oft LPGA Professional & TPI Certified Professional Brianne Murphy, players receive individualized instruction that goes beyond swing mechanics. The focus is on total development—combining technical coaching, fitness training, and tournament prep tailored to each athlete.
With this second-place finish added to his resume, Charles heads into the next stretch of his junior career with momentum. His performance at this tournament is a clear signal: he’s ready for whatever comes next.
Interested in training with DME Golf? Learn more about our program and how we’re building the next generation of elite junior golfers. Talk with an advisor today.
Daytona, FL. DME Academy senior guard Asya Lara Barnes has officially committed to play Division I basketball at Towson University. The 6’0” standout made her decision on April 7, becoming the latest DME athlete to take the next step in their playing career.
Originally from Turkey, Asya Lara Barnes has been a cornerstone of the girls’ basketball program throughout her time at DME. In her senior season, she averaged 7.8 points per game and earned praise for her leadership and consistent performance against national competition.
“She’s the epitome of a DME student-athlete,” said Head Coach Michael Panaggio. “Works hard, humble, stellar teammate. We know she’s going to do big things, and we couldn’t be more proud of her.”
Barnes didn’t care about the spotlight—she stayed focused on development. Whether in practice or on the road, she showed up ready to compete and support her team. Her approach earned respect from coaches, teammates, and recruiters.
DME Academy’s national schedule gives players the kind of exposure that matters, and Barnes made the most of it.
This commitment is part of something bigger. DME Academy continues to send players to the next level by providing structure, elite coaching, and a competitive environment that prepares athletes for college basketball.
Congratulations to Asya on this well-earned milestone.
At DME Academy, we help student-athletes like Asya take the next step. With elite coaching, year-round development, and a national schedule, we provide a platform that produces real results. Ready to elevate your game? Talk to a student admission advisor today!