Five countries. One team. One vision.
When the final whistle blew in Las Vegas, the DME Academy volleyball team had just won the Premier Division at the Under Armour 18U National Championships. The scoreline mattered. The trophy mattered. But what I saw in those final moments was something bigger: proof that five girls from different continents could learn to play together, trust each other under the worst pressure, and execute at the highest level.
“It’s a nice accomplishment for a great group of kids and families,” reflected Coach Alvaro Sanchez on the championship run. “But it also shows our intention to put together a competitive program year after year. It shows seriousness of the program to attract like-minded athletes with similar goals.”
That seriousness didn’t start in Las Vegas. It started in the gym. Every day. Long before nationals.
Building Something From Scratch
“There have been challenges bringing girls from all over the world to learn to play one way,” continued Coach Alvaro. “In the fall we saw some success, but it wasn’t consistent. In April, I remember remarking about wishing we had this chemistry in the fall.”
Chemistry doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when players live together, train together, study together, and learn each other’s language on and off the court. It happens in the gym during practice, in the dining hall at lunch, and in the dorm rooms at night. It happens because the environment around them is built to reinforce one thing: you belong here, you’re being developed here, and your growth extends far beyond the sport.
I identified culture keepers who held the group together: Juanita, Carley, Keri, and Mariana. With three of them graduating, the strength of what they’d built in that group became critical. There was no meltdown. There was no collapse. There was just the next player ready to step in.
“The team had constant lineup changes and lent themselves to a plug and play adaptability that was admirable,” continued coach Sanchez. “No matter who was in, they found ways to be productive.”
That adaptability revealed itself early in the tournament. Going into Las Vegas, my goal was simple but demanding; exhibit competitive spirit, give best effort and focus at all times, celebrate each other. These aren’t complicated things. They’re hard things. Especially when you haven’t played tournaments together since fall, especially when you’re facing teams that may have trained year-round as a unit, and especially when your captain is managing a shoulder injury.
I made a calculated decision: limit the captain’s workload early so fresh legs could absorb the load. It worked. It required trust that the next player could step into a leadership role and deliver. That only happens when a program has spent time developing people, not just players.
Execution Under Pressure
In a crossover match against Nordique on day two, the team faced a bigger opponent with physical advantages at the net. The response was pure systems volleyball: switch the pin hitters, give different looks on both sides, execute serve and pass strategy, limit what the other team could do offensively.
The mental discipline required for that kind of adjustment is developed in a place where students are constantly challenged to solve problems, adapt to pressure, and think beyond the obvious solution. It’s developed in classrooms and in residential life, not just in the gym.
Several matches came down to clutch moments. Marcela came in cold off the bench in a high-pressure situation and got a termination block that gave her team breathing room. Mariana showed up in the moments that mattered, even when she wasn’t having her best match. And Juanita, in the championship set at 23-23, was challenged by assistant coach Hector Garcia to explode and go over the top. She did. The kill sealed the match.
“Different players stepped up in different moments,” concluded Coach Sanchez. “It will be tough to replicate those that graduated in that sense. They genuinely enjoyed each other and celebrated each other well. Lots of tears at the end of it all.”
Those tears weren’t just about winning. They were about what it took to get there. They were about being pushed to uncomfortable places so you can grow. They were about belonging to something bigger than yourself.
What This Actually Shows
“Three players made the all-tournament team: Keri Petro, Giovana Menegazzo, and Mariana Castaño. Luna played the best I’ve ever seen her play. Aniya and Carley were exceptional all weekend. It was a team victory, and the championship reflected that.”
But the larger reflection goes back to why DME Academy exists.
“We were fortunate. Not every group is the same,” expressed Coach Alvaro. “But somehow we were able to bring together kids from five different countries, to get on the same page and play one way, with intention, intensity, relentless effort and competitive spirit. We hope to pass that on to the next group, but every build, every puzzle comes together differently in its own time.”
The standard at DME is to hold students to expectations that make them uncomfortable so they can grow and handle pressure well in the game. It’s to face the best competition possible so there’s only one option: bring your best every time. And through it all, come out the other side with better problem solvers, adaptable athletes, and incredible learners.
A national championship is one way to measure that. But the real measure is what happens next: whether those five girls from different continents carry that growth into their next chapter, whether they understand that adaptability and resilience and genuine connection are portable skills, and whether they believe they belong somewhere bigger than a volleyball court.
That’s what winning in Las Vegas actually meant.
—
*DME Academy volleyball competes in multiple divisions across all age groups. Learn more about our volleyball program, or schedule a visit to see our elite development approach in action.*
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – DME Academy has entered into a multi-year partnership with adidas, with BSN SPORTS serving as the academy’s official outfitter and equipment provider. The agreement establishes adidas as the exclusive supplier of uniforms, apparel, footwear, and accessories across all DME Academy programs.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, performance, and the continued growth of student-athletes within a high-performance training environment. Through this collaboration, DME Academy athletes will be equipped with adidas’ industry-leading technology, including advanced performance fabrics and sport-specific footwear designed to support training and competition at the highest level.
BSN SPORTS will play a central role in delivering this experience, providing streamlined access to adidas products along with customized service and operational support. The partnership ensures efficient delivery, consistent quality, and tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of DME Academy’s coaches, staff, and athletes. With dedicated service and a strong national distribution network, BSN SPORTS enhances the day-to-day experience for every program within the academy.
“This partnership represents an important step forward for DME Academy as we continue to invest in the overall student-athlete experience,” said Seth Brown, CEO of DME Academy. “Aligning with adidas and BSN SPORTS allows us to provide world-class resources while reinforcing the standard of excellence we expect across all of our programs.”
In addition to performance benefits, the agreement will expand brand visibility for adidas across DME Academy’s facilities, digital platforms, and athlete development initiatives. The partnership also introduces enhanced access to custom team stores, giving athletes, families, and supporters the opportunity to engage more directly with the DME brand.
“We’re proud to partner with DME Academy and adidas to support one of the nation’s premier training and educational institutions for student-athletes,” said Doug Patterson, Area Sales Manager, Central Florida at BSN SPORTS. “DME Academy has built an environment centered on elite development, academic excellence, and character building, and we’re excited to provide the apparel, footwear, equipment, and service solutions that allow student-athletes and coaches to focus on performance.”
DME Academy continues to establish itself as a leading destination for student-athletes seeking a comprehensive approach to development, combining elite training, academic support, and exposure to collegiate and professional pathways. This partnership further strengthens that mission by aligning the academy with two industry leaders committed to advancing sport at every level.
About DME Academy
DME Academy is a premier sports academy focused on developing student-athletes through a comprehensive model that integrates elite training, academic excellence, and character development. With programs designed to prepare athletes for collegiate and professional opportunities, DME Academy provides a high-performance environment that emphasizes discipline, exposure, and long-term success.
About adidas
adidas is a global leader in athletic and lifestyle footwear, apparel, and accessories. Driven by innovation and design, adidas develops performance products that help athletes at all levels reach their full potential while also shaping sport and culture worldwide.
About BSN SPORTS
BSN SPORTS is a leading provider of team sports uniforms, apparel, and equipment. A division of Varsity Brands, BSN SPORTS serves more than 150,000 institutional and team sports customers, including collegiate, scholastic, club, and recreational programs across the United States. With a nationwide network of sales professionals and a multi-channel approach that includes e-commerce and direct sales, BSN SPORTS offers a broad selection of products and customized solutions designed to support athletes, coaches, and teams.
Learn more at www.BSNSPORTS.com.
Daytona Beach, FL — DME Academy, known for elite athletics and academic excellence, is proud to announce a new partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. As a global leader in aviation and STEM education—and recently ranked No. 1 in innovation—Embry-Riddle brings unmatched opportunity to DME through a Gaetz Grant-funded initiative. This partnership expands access to STEM programs across Florida.
Starting in the 2025–26 school year, DME middle school students will take part in Embry-Riddle’s BUILD program. This aviation pathway introduces students to aerodynamics, aerospace, and the Magnus Effect through hands-on learning. For example, students will build and program machines using robotics kits, Python, JavaScript, and block coding.
In high school, students will go deeper. They’ll explore scientific concepts like Newton’s Laws and apply them to real-world situations—bridging classroom learning with active exploration.
“Students will have the opportunity to go into the batting cages and see what they’ve learned in motion,” said Stacy Atkinson, Principal at DME Academy. “More importantly, the program introduces students to careers in aerospace, from engineering and programming to marketing and operations.”
“Try as many things as you can,” said Amanda Silva, Central Florida Regional Director at Embry-Riddle. “The worst thing that happens is you don’t like it. That’s how you find what you actually want to do.”
DME students will visit Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach campus, touring departments like A&P and Mechanical Engineering. Teachers will receive specialized training and certifications, while guest lectures from Embry-Riddle faculty and a retired Air Force veteran will enrich the program.
As students progress, they can earn FAA certifications, including the small unmanned aircraft certification, and may qualify for dual-credit courses and potential college scholarships.
This partnership allows DME to provide a competitive edge for students, whether they pursue athletics, STEM careers, or both. With hands-on experience, real credentials, and new exposure to future opportunities, DME Academy continues to lead in student development on and off the field.
Explore how DME Academy is shaping the future of student-athletes on the field and in the classroom.
BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Mikel Brown Jr. didn’t wait for tip-off to make an impact at the 2025 McDonald’s All American Games. The DME Academy senior and Louisville commit claimed the boys’ three-point contest title with a score of 28, catching fire early and closing strong in front of a packed crowd.
Brown knocked down 9 of his first 10 shots and finished by hitting 4 of 5 from the corner. On his final shot, he turned to celebrate with his East teammates before the ball even dropped—a confident performance from one of the most skilled guards in the country.
The McDonald’s All American Game, held annually in front of NBA scouts, media, and college coaches, is considered the premier stage for elite high school talent. All 24 players selected for the boys’ game ranked among ESPN’s top 28 seniors.
The 6’3” point guard from DME Academy is the second-highest ranked recruit in Louisville history during the modern era. He becomes the program’s 29th McDonald’s All American and first since 2019. In February, ESPN projected him as a lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Brown told Louisville Sports Live that an injury shortened his senior season, but he was “100% ready to go” for All-American Week—and he’s proving it. Brown is Louisville’s 29th McDonald’s All American and the program’s first selection since 2019.
“He’s a championship point guard,” Louisville head coach Pat Kelsey said following Brown’s signing in January. “I’ve coached some great, great, great point guards; and I think Mikel is special.
From all of us at DME Academy, we’re proud to have been part of Mikel’s journey. Now, we’ll be cheering him on as he takes the next step toward greatness.
Ready to elevate your game?
DME trains elite student-athletes to compete on the biggest stages. If you’re ready to be next—visit dmeacademy.com or speak with a student-athlete advisor today.
Daytona, FL. At just 18 years old, Yan Diomande has made his professional debut in Spain’s top flight—La Liga—as he suited up for C.D. Leganés against one of the most iconic clubs in the world: Real Madrid.
Sharing the field with global superstars like Kylian Mbappé, Yan didn’t just take part—he stood out. A photo captured him side by side with Mbappé, marking an unforgettable milestone in his journey from DME Academy to European football.
In the match, Yan recorded one shot and one shot on target, making an immediate impact. But it was a second-half moment that truly turned heads: With a burst of pace and composure, he pushed the ball between two defenders on the right side of the goal. Though he couldn’t get the shot off, he forced a dangerous corner kick that nearly tied the match. Leganés would ultimately fall 3–2, but Yan’s fearless play proved he was ready for the global stage.
Yan’s road to professional soccer didn’t happen overnight. At DME Academy, he refined his skillset, strengthened his mindset, and consistently rose to the occasion. In his time here, he:
C.D. Leganés saw what we saw: an elite forward with international experience (as a former Ivory Coast U-17) and the work rate to match. Now part of the Leganés family, Yan brings explosive speed, vision, and technical excellence to one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.
At DME Academy, we don’t just build athletes—we prepare them for the biggest stages in sports. Through our professional-grade facilities, expert coaching staff, and a culture rooted in excellence, we provide student-athletes the foundation to chase greatness.
Yan’s story is proof that anything is possible with the right environment, belief, and support system.
DME Academy isn’t just a school. It’s a launchpad for driven athletes with big dreams. Yan’s story proves what’s possible with the right support, training, and mindset.
If you or someone you know is ready to pursue high-level soccer development, now is the time.
Speak with a Student Advisor and see how we help athletes unlock their full potential.
Daytona, FLA. DME Academy’s Beach Volleyball team kicked off its first season with two big wins, defeating Matanzas in a tight 3-2 match before sweeping Burns Science & Technology 5-0. The debut showcased the team’s talent and set the stage for an exciting season ahead.
DME’s first-ever victory came in a hard-fought match against Matanzas. Alea DiSantis & Olivia Lewis secured the program’s first dual win, dominating 21-12, 21-12 at the No. 4 seed. Giovanna Agostini & Marcela Dias added another win at No. 2, battling to a 2-1 victory.
After Matanzas took the No. 3 and No. 1 seed matches, the outcome rested on the No. 5 pair. Ann-Charlotte Fontana & Lorali Strickland delivered under pressure, closing out the match 21-11, 21-8 to clinch DME’s first program victory.
“This was a great way to kick off DME Beach Volleyball,” said Head Coach Craig Lenniger. “Our girls stepped up when it mattered most.”
Facing another first-year program in Burns Science & Technology, DME settled in and dominated from start to finish, securing a 5-0 sweep. The top three seeds all won in straight sets before lineup changes at No. 4 and No. 5 gave more players a chance to shine. Ann-Charlotte Fontana & Rebecca Lopes and Luna Arias-Figueroa & Kyla LaBarre both won in 2-0 sweeps to close out the night.
“Starting the season 2-0 feels great, but we have a lot to improve before our next matches,” Lenniger added.
DME Academy is committed to developing top athletes through elite coaching and competition. Learn more about our volleyball programs today.
Daytona, FL. DME Academy’s volleyball program continues to rise, and the 18-1 Club team is leading the way. With a Regional 18 American Bid secured, they are officially heading to the 2025 USA Volleyball Girls 18s Junior National Championship in Salt Lake City, Utah, from April 25-27. This achievement marks another milestone in the academy’s growing reputation as a top destination for elite volleyball development.
DME’s 18-1 squad has been a dominant force this season, earning their Nationals bid through consistent high-level play. Their success at the AAU Chill Blast Grand Prix and strong performances at multiple tournaments have cemented their status as a team to watch on the national stage. Led by key players Giovanna Agostini, Juanita Hernandez, Mariana Castano, and Ann-Charlotte Fontana, this team has proven they have the skill, resilience, and determination to compete with the nation’s best. Now, they get the opportunity to put it all to the test on the biggest stage.
Beyond the success of the 18-1 team, DME Academy’s Club volleyball program as a whole is proving its strength. At the 2025 Prez Day Invitational, multiple teams delivered standout performances:
Individual recognition also followed, with 2026 Juanita Hernandez earning a spot on the Prez Day Invitational All-Tournament Team, highlighting the level of talent within the program.
DME Academy continues to attract top talent and provide a competitive training environment that prepares athletes for the next level. With a focus on skill development, strategy, and high-level competition, the program has positioned itself among the best in the region. The 18-1 team’s trip to Nationals is just the latest proof of DME’s continued growth and success.
For athletes looking to elevate their game, DME Academy offers a proven pathway to success. Learn more about our volleyball programs and how you can be part of a program built for development and competition. Visit our site.
Daytona, FL. Soccer is back, and DME teams wasted no time making an impact. Over the weekend, the program delivered a dominant 3-0 sweep, immediately setting the tone for the season ahead.
In addition to their on-field success, DME welcomed Salomon Kidane as the new Boys Soccer Director. Previously, he led the University School at Nova Southeastern University, bringing both experience and leadership to an already competitive environment. With his arrival, DME Soccer strengthens its mission of developing top-level athletes.
The National Boys team kicked off league play with a commanding victory 9-2 against Atletico Orlando controlling possession from the start and capitalizing on scoring opportunities throughout the match.
Meanwhile, the Regional Boys team followed with another strong performance, securing a 8-0 victory against Clay county.
To round out the weekend, the National Girls team secured a victory of their own, completing a perfect start to the season.
A Program Built for Success
At DME, soccer is more than just competition—it’s about development. The program provides a structured, high-performance environment where players not only compete against elite opposition but also receive top-level coaching designed to elevate their game.
With this in mind, the addition of Coach Kidane further strengthens DME Soccer’s commitment to preparing athletes for the next level. His leadership, combined with the academy’s strong training culture, ensures that players have every opportunity to succeed.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of a program built for development and competition. Learn more about our soccer programs today! Visit our site.
Daytona, FLA. Choosing the right middle and high school is a major decision for families. Private schools offer unique advantages, and DME Academy is a prime example of how academics and athletics can work together to set students up for success. With a focus on in-person teaching, elite sports programs, and college preparation, DME provides a complete school experience that builds future leaders.
One of the biggest benefits of private education is the teacher-to-student ratio. At DME Academy, smaller class sizes mean teachers can focus on each student’s strengths and challenges. The result? A bespoke learning experience that helps students reach their full academic potential.
DME Academy is more than just a school—it’s a place where student-athletes train like pros. With top-tier coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and a track record of developing college and professional athletes, DME provides an unmatched environment for those serious about their sport.
DME’s modern classrooms, advanced sports facilities, and on-campus resources create the ideal setting for student success. Whether in the classroom, gym, or on the field, students have access to everything they need to perform at their best.
DME Academy brings together students from across the U.S. and around the world, fostering a diverse and inspiring learning environment. With a strong focus on character development, leadership, and teamwork, DME students graduate with the confidence and skills to succeed in any path they choose.
For families seeking the best of both academics and athletics, DME Academy delivers. With personalized education, elite training, and a clear path to college, students get every opportunity to excel in school, sports, and life.
Want to see if DME is the right fit? Click here to explore our programs and schedule a visit.
Daytona, Fla.
DME Academy’s high school basketball program continues to shine as five players are named McDonald’s All American Games East Nominees. This recognition showcases the exceptional talent cultivated within our academy and highlights our commitment to developing elite athletes both on and off the court.
Mikel Brown Jr. and Trey Simpson III have been standout performers for DME Academy’s National Boys Team. Their exceptional skill, dynamic athleticism, and leadership on the court make them two of the most electrifying talents in high school basketball, solidifying the National Boys Team’s reputation as one of the best in the country.
Leyla Minor, Lara Barnes, and Zaniah Zellous have been instrumental in the Girls National Team’s undefeated conference record. Their teamwork and determination set the standard for excellence at DME Academy.
What Are the McDonald’s All American Games?
DME Academy offers a premier environment for high school basketball players to excel. Our mission is to help student-athletes thrive academically and athletically, preparing them for college and beyond. With world-class coaches, state-of-the-art facilities, and a proven track record of success, DME Academy is the ultimate destination for athletes who want to elevate their game.
If you’re ready to elevate your game, train with world-class coaches, and compete at the highest levels of high school basketball, we want to hear from you. Click the link here to get on our radar.