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. 

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.

Get ready for three days of thrilling basketball action as DME Academy presents the 4th Annual Jingle Jam tournament in Daytona Beach, Florida. From December 14 to 16, the state-of-the-art basketball facility at DME Academy will come alive with the skills and determination of some of the finest girls’ teams from across the nation. 

National Teams Converge

Teams from various corners of the country will converge in Daytona Beach for a basketball spectacle like no other. Among the participating teams are powerhouses such as Example Academy (IL), Hamilton Heights (TN), Life Prep (KS), Link Academy (MO) and Recruiting Boost, all the way from Australia. The competition promises to be fierce, with each team vying for glory and showcasing their skills on the meticulously maintained courts.

DME Academy’s Dominance

DME Academy is not just the host but also a formidable contender in the Jingle Jam tournament. The academy boasts two teams in the competition: Prep and National. The National team, currently ranked 8th in the country by ESPN, is a force to be reckoned with. Comprising a roster of exceptional talent, this team has multiple players heading to top-tier college programs next year.

Key Players to Watch

Olivia Schmitt: A small but mighty point guard, Schmitt is set to take her talents to Syracuse University next year. Her agility and court vision make her a standout player to watch during the tournament.

Keira Scott: Standing at an impressive 6’2″, Scott, ranked 97th in the nation by ESPN and also heading to the Orange next year, brings versatility to the wing position. Her skills on both ends of the court make her a key player for DME Academy.

Tabitha Betson: Hailing from Australia, Betson is a 6’2″ forward with an ESPN ranking of 80. She is a strong, selfless player who is committed to playing basketball for Colorado next year.

Tahj Bloom: With an ESPN ranking of 38, Bloom is a strong, scoring machine. This 6’3″ power forward is set to play for Mississippi State University next year.

Ines Goryanova: Ranked 71st by ESPN, Goryanova, a point guard from Bulgaria, is committed to Baylor. Her skills and athleticism make her a dynamic presence on the courts.

Witness the Action

For basketball enthusiasts and casual fans alike, the Jingle Jam tournament offers a chance to witness top-tier talent and exciting matchups. If you’re in the Daytona Beach area, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the adrenaline-pumping atmosphere in person. Tickets are available at the door for $10 per day. For anyone who can’t be at Jingle Jam in person, all league games will be live streamed on YouTube Live. Fans can find the full schedule here and should follow DME Girls Basketball on Instagram and Twitter for tournament updates.

The Jingle Jam tournament is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of basketball excellence. Join us as DME Academy and teams from across the nation showcase the true spirit of the game on these hallowed courts. 

To learn more about DME Academy’s nationally-ranked girls basketball program, click here.

The 6th Annual DME Academy Beach & Ball Classic, a premier men’s high school and post-grad basketball tournament, kicks off tomorrow, Thursday, December 7, and promises a weekend filled with fierce competition, high-energy plays, and unforgettable moments. The tournament will run through Sunday, December 10, at the esteemed DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Teams from across the nation are converging on DME, each eager to showcase their skills and compete in this well-organized and highly competitive event. This year’s lineup includes powerhouse teams such as DME Academy, DME Academy Wisconsin, IMG Academy, Prestige Worldwide, Montverde Academy, Rocktop Academy, and more. With such an impressive array of talent on display, fans can expect thrilling matchups and intense battles on the court.

The driving force behind the success of this annual event is none other than Matt Panaggio, the Director of Men’s Basketball at DME Academy. As the organizer and director of the Beach & Ball Classic, Panaggio expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament, stating, “The Beach & Ball Classic has become a staple in showcasing top-tier talent and fostering healthy competition. We’re thrilled to welcome top teams from around the country to DME, and we’re confident that this year’s tournament will be a testament to the skill and dedication of these young athletes.”

Basketball enthusiasts and sports fans alike are encouraged to keep up with the action on Twitter by connecting with DME Academy (@DMESportsAcad) and DME Men’s Basketball (@DMEAcademyMBB). These social media channels will provide real-time updates on scores and announcements of the MVP and All-Tournament team honorees.

For those who want to witness the excitement in person, entry tickets will be sold at the door for $10 per day, or $25 for a 4-day pass. It’s an excellent opportunity to watch some of the most skilled and talented players and teams in the nation compete at the highest level. The atmosphere promises to be electric, with passionate fans cheering on their favorite teams and players.

Don’t miss out on the 6th Annual DME Academy Beach & Ball Classic—a basketball event that celebrates the spirit of competition, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of excellence. To learn more about DME Academy’s elite men’s basketball program, click here.

In the world of soccer, talent knows no boundaries, and it often takes exceptional players to rise above the rest. This year, we are proud to announce that Yan Diomande, a prominent winger on DME Academy’s boys high school soccer team, has been named the STARI Player of the Year. This recognition comes as no surprise to those who have witnessed Diomande’s remarkable journey through the beautiful game.

STARI, an international soccer network that dedicates itself to showcasing the talents of players worldwide, identifies and honors players who exhibit extraordinary skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. Yan Diomande’s rise to prominence within this network speaks volumes about his exceptional abilities on the field.

Diomande’s soccer journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Whether donning the jersey for DME Academy or leading AS Frenzi, he has consistently stood out as a standout player. Last year, he spearheaded DME Academy to an undefeated season, leaving opponents in awe of his dazzling footwork and scoring prowess. Diomande continued to shine in the summer months, where he played a pivotal role in AS Frenzi’s historic journey to their first-ever UPSL Championship Title. His performance on the pitch was nothing short of sensational, with crucial goals that propelled his team to victory. It is not just his skills, but his leadership and determination that make him an invaluable asset to any team he represents.

Thales Peterson, Director of Soccer at DME Academy, had glowing praise for the young star. “Dio’s journey at DME Academy has been nothing short of exceptional. His dedication to improving his game day in and day out is truly inspiring. He is not just a gifted athlete but also a team player who understands the importance of collaboration and unity on and off the field. We are incredibly proud of his achievements, and we believe this is just the beginning of an extraordinary career.”

This accolade recognizes not only Diomande’s individual brilliance but also the dedication and hard work of the entire DME Academy coaching staff, who have played a pivotal role in nurturing his talent. It is a testament to the academy’s commitment to producing world-class soccer players and their unwavering belief in the potential of their athletes.

As Diomande continues to shine on the soccer field and make a name for himself on the global stage, he serves as an inspiration to aspiring young players everywhere. His journey reminds us that with determination, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence, anyone can rise to the top of the game.

Diomande’s recognition as the STARI Player of the Year is a well-deserved honor that reflects his exceptional talent, dedication, and outstanding achievements. DME Academy congratulates him and looks forward to witnessing his continued success on and off the field. 

Click here to learn about DME’s undefeated boys high school soccer program.

The halls of DME Academy reverberated with the sounds of dribbling basketballs and the echoes of enthusiastic cheers as the renowned institution recently concluded another highly successful Summer Prep camp season. With a commitment to excellence and an unwavering dedication to nurturing aspiring athletes, DME Academy once again demonstrated its prowess in providing top-tier training and development opportunities for young athletes.

The Basketball Summer Prep camp, which took place from July 7 to 31, drew significant attention and anticipation as it quickly sold out, underscoring the eagerness of young basketball enthusiasts to elevate their game. Boys and girls aged 14 to 19 converged at DME Academy to participate in the intensive 25-day program. Designed to cater to serious basketball athletes seeking to advance to the next level, the camp provided a comprehensive platform for skill enhancement and game readiness.

Guided by DME’s seasoned coaches, each possessing a wealth of college and/or professional experience, the athletes were fully engaged in an immersive and transformational training program. DME Academy’s state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies complemented the training sessions, providing a dynamic environment for growth and improvement.

The basketball camp’s itinerary was meticulously crafted to provide a comprehensive experience. The athletes engaged in two on-court practices per day, accompanied by four strength and conditioning workouts per week to optimize their physical capabilities. Beach workouts added an extra layer of intensity to the program, enhancing endurance and strength. The inclusion of three Florida AAU events and approximately 15 games ensured that the athletes received exposure to high levels of competition. When they weren’t training, the DME campers enjoyed their down time visiting college campuses, taking group trips to the movies and mall, and catching a Daytona Tortugas baseball game.

Recognizing the importance of keeping families engaged in their athletes’ journey, DME Academy employed an array of tools to ensure parents remained well-informed and connected. Live-streamed home games brought the thrill of competition to parents’ screens, regardless of their geographical location, allowing them to witness the progress and dedication of their young athletes. Professionally recorded games, conveniently accessible through platforms like Hudl and Youtube, not only provided a chance for parents to review their children’s performances but also reinforced DME Academy’s commitment to transparency and quality. Furthermore, a dedicated WhatsApp group was established, facilitating the seamless sharing of daily updates, photos, and videos, enabling parents to experience the daily activities and progress of their athletes firsthand. This holistic approach to communication solidified the sense of community and collaboration between DME Academy, athletes, and their families, fostering an environment of trust and shared achievement.

The appeal of DME Academy’s Summer Prep camp transcended geographical boundaries. Campers flocked to the academy from near and far, underscoring the program’s reputation internationally. DME Academy proudly hosted groups from across the world, including Qatar and Switzerland. 

Derrick Lang, the executive director of DLANG Training, brought over 35 players from Switzerland. Lang’s involvement highlighted the global recognition of DME Academy’s training expertise. Additionally, BE Basketball, a premier basketball program in Qatar and a valued partner of DME Academy, sent two athletes from Doha, Qatar, to benefit from the comprehensive training at the camp.

Reflecting on the remarkable success of the Summer Prep camp season, Matt Panaggio, Director of Basketball at DME Academy, shared, “Our goal is to create an environment where athletes can thrive both on and off the court. The Summer Prep camps embody our commitment to fostering growth, and it’s truly inspiring to witness the transformation of these young athletes over the course of the program.”

Beyond the basketball court, DME Academy’s dedication to comprehensive athlete development extended across sports. Baseball, Soccer, and Volleyball also stepped into the spotlight, hosting Summer Prep camps in July. The four camps welcomed over 150 athletes to DME’s campus, creating a melting pot of athletic talent and camaraderie.

The Summer Prep camps, while rooted in the pursuit of athletic excellence, evolved into much more than mere training sessions. They transformed into vibrant celebrations of sport, dedication, and the power of teamwork. As the athletes bid adieu to their summer training grounds, they carried with them not only enhanced skills but also a profound sense of belonging to a community united by their love for the game and their determination to be the best versions of themselves.

To be the first to know about DME’s Summer Prep camps in 2024, fill out the camp form here!

The AS Frenzi soccer team, a dominant force in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL), claimed victory in the 2023 UPSL Title through an exhilarating demonstration of skill and teamwork, all made possible by the extraordinary efforts of six standout players from DME Academy. This triumph not only secured the championship for AS Frenzi but also showcased the extraordinary talent that DME Academy continues to nurture within its ranks.

AS Frenzi, a semi-professional boys soccer team hailing from Lake Mary, Florida, has carved its name as a formidable force in the competitive arena of the UPSL. The team’s dedication, training, and unwavering passion for the sport have been evident in every match they’ve played, leading up to their remarkable victory. Competing against the odds and leaving no room for doubt, AS Frenzi secured a spot in next year’s tournament by clinching the UPSL Title.

What makes this victory even more remarkable is the invaluable contribution of six rising stars from DME Academy – Yan Diomande, Ethan Rosenblum, Adrian Biaggi, Charles Christian, Abraham Oshodi, and James Isaac. These young athletes have been honing their skills and pushing their limits at DME Academy, a testament to the academy’s commitment to nurturing the future stars of soccer.

The final showdown took place at the illustrious Segra Field in Loudoun, Virginia, the home ground of the USL Championship team, Loudoun United FC. Facing off against Sporting Wichita, AS Frenzi emerged triumphant with a hard-fought 2-1 victory. The game was a thrilling roller coaster of emotions, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

A standout performance came from Yan Diomande, the 16-year-old striker from DME Academy, who showcased his prowess by scoring both crucial goals for AS Frenzi. Diomande’s first goal in the 8th minute demonstrated his finesse and precision as he expertly maneuvered past his assigned defender, slotting the ball confidently into the net. This early lead set the tone for the intense battle that followed.

The game, however, took an unexpected twist as Sporting Wichita managed to level the score, resulting in a 1-1 tie at the end of regulation time. This turn of events only intensified the drama, making it clear that the teams were willing to leave everything on the pitch for the championship.

In the 115th minute, when the stakes were at their highest, Yan Diomande once again seized the moment. In the closing moments of the match, Diomande exhibited remarkable precision and composure, elegantly curling the ball into the bottom right corner of the net. This pivotal goal not only propelled him to the summit of the Golden Boot race but also held greater significance by securing AS Frenzi’s historic first UPSL national championship.

The victory not only reflects the dedication of AS Frenzi and its players but also highlights the effectiveness of DME Academy’s training and development programs. The academy’s commitment to fostering talent and instilling values of teamwork, discipline, and excellence has once again borne fruit, creating a legacy that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of soccer enthusiasts.

As the celebrations continue, DME Academy takes immense pride in the achievements of its players and the pivotal role they played in AS Frenzi’s momentous victory. With this triumph, both AS Frenzi and DME Academy have set a high bar for themselves, setting the stage for even greater accomplishments in the world of soccer.

To learn more about becoming a part of DME’s elite soccer program, click here.

AS Frenzi, the semi-professional soccer team out of Lake Mary, Florida, is making history as the first-ever Florida team to punch their ticket to the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) National Finals. 

Six DME Academy boys soccer players are members of the elite squad, and have been leading their team to victory all season. Ethan Rosenblum, Adrian Biaggi, Charles Christian, Yan Diomande, James Isaac, and Abraham Oshodi are key contributors to the team’s success, with four of the six athletes starting for AS Frenzi. They are heading into the semi-finals with a 9-1-1 record, and Christian and Oshodi leading the charge as the team’s top scorers with 10 goals a piece.

AS Frenzi officially punched their ticket to the finals weekend with their 7-1 quarter-finals win over Tennessee Tempo on July 22. Diomande led the squad with 2 goals, while Isaac netted another. Diomonde’s goal to put his team up 4-0, his ninth of the season, was nothing short of entertaining.

@upsl_official

When you assist yourself 👀👀 ⚽️ AS Frenzi’s Yan Diomande #UPSL

♬ original sound – UPSL

The UPSL National Finals are set to take place from August 4-6 at Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia, home to Loudoun United FC. AS Frenzi will take on Chicago Nation FC in Friday’s semi-finals, while Sporting Wichita SC will match up against CD Delfines De Abasolo shortly after. The winners of each match will then battle it out on that Sunday, where one team will be crowned the 2023 UPSL Champions.

Fans can tune in to AS Frenzi’s semi-finals match-up on Friday, August 4 at 5:30 pm EST by watching the livestream here.

To learn more about DME Academy’s elite boys soccer program, click here.

DME Academy Baseball Traveled To Cooperstown for the Annual All-Star Village Baseball Tournament!

The DME Academy 12U baseball team was on tour last weekend. The Florida baseball team packed their bags and headed up to Cooperstown Dreams Park for the annual baseball tournament. Known as “America’s Baseball Summer Camp”, this tournament honors traditional values of faith, and baseball and hosts teams from all over the country.

Since the tournament’s origin, 25 years ago, Cooperstown Dreams Park has become a place for families to vacation while playing real, competitive baseball. The tournament also hosts a home run derby for young athletes. 

DME Academy’s 12U baseball team was one of the fortunate teams to be invited to the tournament and played 6 games. They ended the tournament with a winning record of four wins and two losses. 

During the first game on Saturday, DME Academy put up seven runs in the fourth inning and five home runs, which helped the team to victory over the Oregon Park Rangers. The final score was 16-4 in favor of DME Academy. 

Sunday, DME Academy was up against the Denver Royals Baseball Club. DME put up seven runs in the third inning. Zach Killian, who is also on DME Academy’s Middle school team, proved to be a big bat for DME, sending a ball over the fence for a home run in the first inning. Overall, DME had 8 home runs on the day and won 17-8.

DME Academy baseball claimed a 13-9 victory in the second game of Sunday against Bucs Baseball Club. ​​Both offenses were strong at the plate as DME Academy National 12U collected 15 hits and Bucs Baseball Club recorded 11 in the high-scoring affair.  DME scored three home runs on the day to secure the win. 

DME snatched the lead late in the game in a victory over Willoughby Wildcats Reynolds 12U on Monday to round out their win streak.  The game was tied at four with DME Academy National 12U batting in the top of the fifth when Sebastian V homered on a 3-1 count, scoring two runs. DME launched five home runs on the day. The home run tally with Zach in the fourth, Sebastian in the fifth, Liam in the sixth and Justin pulling double duty in both the first and the fifth innings. The final score of the game was 9-4 in favor of DME.

The remainder of the tournament did not yield any more wins for DME, as they fell to the Texas Mizuno Autry 15-3 and also succumbed to the Next Level Prospects in a hard-fought loss 24-20. Overall, the tournament was a success and DME Academy’s baseball team had a ton of fun and learned a lot about the tradition of baseball at Cooperstown Dreams Park. 

Interested in our DME’s growing baseball academy? Check it out here!