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.

These transitions reflect DME’s dedication to fostering talent, achieving success, and maintaining a culture of excellence.

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.

In the scorching heat of Daytona, a teenage sensation named Yan Diomande emerged from the shadows. Diomande has left a mark on every game he’s played across friendlies against top soccer academies, in some of the best collegiate showcase events in the country, and even in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL). In just his second year at DME Academy, Diomande’s rise is captivating the soccer world as he stands out from the crowd in all matches played helping the team to two undefeated seasons thus far. 

Diomande burst onto the scene, displaying a level of skill and maturity beyond his years. The Ivory Coast U17 Forward became the driving force behind DME Academy’s National High School team, most recently going undefeated and winning the top bracket of the Tampa Bay Super Cup. He was the leading scorer across all teams in the event which featured MLS, and ECNL teams alike. In summer play, he guests for AS Frenzi’s, culminating in a 2-1 triumph over Sporting Wichita in the UPSL championship match. Diomande’s remarkable feat included scoring both goals in the final, solidifying his status as a rising star. Most recently, he was named among the 23 male players that dominated 2023 by Top Drawer Soccer.

What sets Diomande apart is his dominance on the pitch. Cool, calm, and collected he lulls the defense to sleep and then burns them in a flash. He leads the team (and the entire league in goals), consistently finding the back of the net with precision and flair. His exceptional  USPL performance was rewarded with the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, a testament to his impact on the pitch.

Yan Diomande’s journey to stardom is not only defined by statistics but also by a series of skillful moments that captivated fans across social media. His extraordinary goals, dazzling dribbles, and clever assists quickly went viral on social media, earning him admirers from around the globe. Diomande’s highlight reel became a showcase of raw talent and footballing intelligence, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his next move and garnishing millions of views.

Off the pitch, he is a student-athlete with exceptional character. He is kind to all teammates, and DME athletes across both Daytona and Sarasota, and an excellent role model for the younger generation. Everyone loves Dio. “ On the field his change of direction is impressive. His vision to find passes is unbelievable and showcases passes that only he can see. Off the field, he is humble, respectful, and acts like an older brother to younger athletes.” Coach Thales, DME Academy 

It comes as no surprise that Yan Diomande’s exceptional performances attracted the attention of Major League Soccer (MLS) and European clubs. The teenager has star potential written all over him, and no doubt will land a pro contract with the same humble attitude that he represents daily on campus. 

Diomande’s play is a testament to the power of raw talent and determination. He has demonstrated that age is no barrier to success and has dominated every level of play put before him. As he stands on the precipice of a professional career, soccer enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate witnessing the continued rise of this remarkable young talent from DME Academy.

Click here to learn more about DME’s elite, highly-developmental boys soccer program.

The recent 2023 DME Soccer Showcase at DME Academy unfolded on December 1st and 2nd, featuring high school boys’ teams like Lakeland United, Combine Academy, and Leg AZ World. College coaches and recruiters, including those from the University of Central Florida, Stetson University, and the University of Dayton, were on the sidelines, evaluating the promising young talents.

Guiding the DME teams both on and off the pitch is Head Coach Thales Peterson, spearheading a coaching staff that emphasizes holistic development.

Training encompasses soccer skills, mental performance, and strength and conditioning, molding players into well-rounded individuals ready for both sport and life challenges.

The tournament provided a platform for players to showcase their skills, with competitive matches displaying teamwork and individual prowess.

As the 2023 DME Soccer Showcase fades into the past, the focus now shifts to DME Soccer’s upcoming event, Battle at the Beach, scheduled for January 12-14, 2024.
The 2023 showcase was a testament to the dedication of both players and coaching staff, setting the stage for an exciting future in soccer at DME Academy.

To stay in the loop with DME Soccer events and news, visit the boys’ soccer page.

This holiday season, consider gifting your child more than just material possessions. DME Academy offers an unforgettable alternative — elite experiences that not only bring joy but also contribute to your child’s development and well-being.

Here are three compelling reasons to choose DME Academy’s Summer Camps as the ultimate gift for kids.

1. Elite Sports Development: Ignite the Champion Within

DME Academy stands at the forefront of elite sports training, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experienced coaches dedicated to unlocking your child’s athletic potential. The coaching at DME is unparalleled, providing specialized guidance that can elevate your child’s game to new heights. From refining fundamental skills to advanced techniques, our camps focus on comprehensive sports development, ensuring that your young athlete not only excels in their chosen sport but also gains a competitive edge.

DME Academy’s elite sports camps are not just a great gift for kids, but an investment in their athletic future. Imagine the pride and confidence your child will exude as they showcase newfound skills and compete at a higher level after receiving top-notch training from DME’s accomplished coaching staff.

2. Enhanced Health and Well-being: Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally

In today’s digital age, the importance of promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for children cannot be overstated. DME Academy’s camps provide the perfect antidote to excessive screen time by immersing your child in a world of physical activity, mental stimulation, and emotional growth.

Our carefully crafted programs ignite your child’s inner drive to be more active and engage in sports, fostering habits that contribute to their overall well-being. Away from the screen, they’ll participate in sports training, strength and conditioning workouts (sometimes on the beach for an extra dose of excitement), and recreational activities that challenge and nurture their physical, mental, and emotional capabilities.

By choosing DME Academy’s camps, you’re not only gifting a memorable experience but also supporting your child’s health and wellness, setting the foundation for a balanced and active lifestyle.

3. Unforgettable Experience: Creating Memories That Last a Lifetime

DME Academy’s Summer Camps promise an unforgettable experience that extends far beyond the realm of sports training. Picture your child embarking on thrilling adventures, from fun and intense workouts on the beach to exciting trips to Universal Studios and tours of local universities.

Beyond the physical activities, the bonds formed with fellow campers from around the world add a layer of richness to the experience. Lifelong friendships are forged as young athletes share their passion for sports, creating a global community that extends beyond the camp’s duration.

Choosing DME’s Summer Camps as a holiday gift for kids means giving your child more than just a few weeks of fun—it’s about providing an immersive experience that shapes their character, builds lasting memories, and fosters a love for sports that will endure.

DME is offering $350 off any Summer Prep Camp this month only when you use the promo code “HOLIDAY23”. To find the camp that’s right for your young athlete, click here.

DME Academy’s Summer Prep Camps are back for the summer of 2024, and they promise to be the best yet! Whether you’re passionate about soccer, basketball, volleyball, or baseball, our elite summer camps are designed to help athletes maximize their potential, develop their skills, and have an unforgettable summer experience.

Soccer Summer Prep: July 1-21, 2024

Kick off your summer with DME’s Soccer Summer Prep Camp led by legendary coach Thales Peterson. The camp runs from July 1 to 21 and offers one, two, and three-week options with choices for boarders and non-boarders. Coach Thales, who also serves as the head soccer coach at DME, brings a wealth of professional experience and high-energy, motivational instruction to the camp.

The focus of this camp is on technical training with a strong emphasis on footwork and game situations and strategies that impact athlete performance. Campers will develop their soccer skills, game IQ, and overall athletic abilities with the support of our experienced coaching staff. We also introduce sport-specific strength and conditioning best practices to get your body and mind ready for game action. Our goal is to lay the foundation for your athlete to increase speed, strength, agility, flexibility, and explosiveness.

Basketball Summer Prep: July 1-21, 2024

Our highly popular Basketball Summer Prep Camp returns this summer from July 1 to 21. The three-week program offers boarding and non-boarding options. Directed by Matt Panaggio and Mike Panaggio, both with years of experience in playing and coaching basketball, this camp is a dream come true for young basketball enthusiasts.

The camp includes two on-court practices per day, four strength and conditioning workouts per week, beach workouts, a trip to a Universal Studios amusement park, and participation in three Florida AAU Tournaments/Events.

Due to its high demand, we recommend securing your spot early for this elite camp experience as it completely sold out last summer.

Volleyball Summer Prep: July 14-27, 2024

For female athletes aged 14-18, our Volleyball Summer Prep Camp, running from July 14 to 27, offers intensive one or two-week options with choices to board or commute. This program is designed to help serious volleyball athletes improve their game and prepare for the next level.

Under the guidance of DME Volleyball head coach, Craig Lenniger, campers will receive top-tier training, access to the best coaches and facilities, and exposure to high levels of competition.

Whether you’re into indoor or beach volleyball, this camp will provide the tools and experience you need to excel.

Baseball Summer Prep: July 14-27, 2024

For young baseball enthusiasts in middle to high school, our Baseball Summer Prep Camp is an intensive program designed to help athletes improve their game and get ready for their next season. This camp runs from July 14 to 27 and offers one or two-week options, with choices to board or commute.

Directed by DME Baseball head coach, Michael Main, a former MLB pitcher and first-round draft pick, this camp provides exposure to the highest levels of instruction and competition. Athletes will develop their game, athletic abilities, and train to become the best version of themselves, both in character and athletic performance.

At DME Academy, we take pride in our experienced coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and the unforgettable experience that our camps offer. Athletes from all over the world come together to develop and compete, form lasting friendships, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to unlock your athletic potential and have an amazing summer experience at DME Academy’s Summer Prep Camps 2024. Secure your spot now and get ready to #IgniteTheDream!

In a thrilling showcase of talent and teamwork, the DME Academy boys’ high school soccer team kicked off their home season opener in style on Thursday, September 14th. The stage was set on their pristine new turf field, creating an electrifying atmosphere that set the tone for an unforgettable evening.

Facing off against Ormond Beach SC, the DME boys showcased their exceptional skills, dominating the match from the first whistle to the last.

At halftime, the score already stood at 3-0, setting the stage for a commanding victory. Each goal and defensive stop was a true team effort, and highlighted the team chemistry that they’ve been building. The final score was 6-0 in favor of DME, improving their record to 2-1-0.

After the match, Head Coach Thales Peterson said, “having played the first-ever home match at our brand new field was such an amazing experience. We had a great crowd, and the students were super encouraging on the sidelines.”

Despite the big win, Coach Peterson maintained his focus on the bigger picture. “The most important thing was the improvement. The staff got to see some of our new players in action, and the team is coming together nicely and bonding well,” he emphasized. It’s this dedication to continuous improvement that has positioned DME Academy as a force to be reckoned with in high school soccer.

But the night was not just about soccer. In addition to their victory, the team came together to celebrate the birthdays of two of their own, Campo and Billo.

The camaraderie and unity among the players were evident both on and off the field, reinforcing the sense of family that defines the DME Academy soccer program.

Looking ahead, DME Academy has no plans to rest on their laurels. Their next challenge awaits them on Wednesday, September 20th, at 5:15 pm when they face IdeaSport Soccer Academy’s U18 team at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. With their recent victory fueling their determination, DME Academy is poised for another exciting chapter in their promising season.

Get up-to-date scores and real-time content by following DME Soccer’s Instagram page.

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.