Joe Curti (Carthage) and Jackson Patillo (Willard) have committed to attend Richmond, The American International University of London. at the Leeds England campus and will play Soccer for The International Academic and Soccer Academy (IASA). Joe and Jackson are teammates on Springfield SC as well as the Missouri State ODP program.

The opportunity to move to the UK and play year round came as a result of their ODP activities. Curti and Patillo played in front of RIASA Director of Coaching Mark Ellis against two English Professional Academy Teams when the 93 Missouri ODP squad traveled to the UK in the Summer of 2010. The boys won their game against 2nd Division Marcambe’s Academy 3-2 in a game played at Blackburn Rovers Academy Grounds. The ODP Coach, John Roeslein, is pictured in the signing photos (suit and tie).

During the trip all the players were able to visit the RIASA Stadium, Training Grounds and visited with Vice President of Richmond “The American International” University in London – Mark Kopenski. Mr. Kopenski introduced the partnership between Richmond and IASA. Also on hand was David Baldwin the IASA CEO.

Joe finishes his carear at Carthage as the all time leader in assists, points, and is tied for most goals. He was a 4 year starter and he has his honors listed in his player profile that I’ve attached. Jackson will be working on an International Business degree and included in his curriculum at RIASA he can graduate with a UEFA Soccer Coaching License.

RIASA players will play a full year round schedule against many of England’s Professional Academy Teams. The team will also play in one of the English Men’s Leagues which can help them qualify for the FA Cup. All RIASA players will receive a student work permit. This will allow some of the very best in the Academy, to move on to some of the professional ranks in England. One this semester at RIASA has signed a pro contract with Carlisle a 1 division team.

The IASA/Richmond Program

The International Academic and Soccer Academy allows students the best of both worlds: a top quality academic program while living and playing in a true soccer culture. The UK is a natural fit for the North American and international soccer players, both culturally and for exposure to the best league in the world. It may provide an exit route into the professional game, for students, as they will be continually showcased against top professional academies. US college soccer provides a very limited experience and developmental opportunity for students to reach their true potential. NCAA and NAIA rules restrict the playing season and times players can play, be coached, and develop their game. At The International Academic and Soccer Academy, IASA/Richmond students can fully develop their playing potential and still receive a top quality professional education.

Campus in Leeds, UK

The IASA site is located in the Metropolitan Area of West Yorkshire near the major cities of Leeds, Bradford, Manchester, and Sheffield and is considered one of the top university areas in all of the UK with over 100,000 students calling the area home. Leeds lies halfway on the train route between London and Edinburgh, Scotland. Leeds and the metro region have well over a million inhabitants and is a thriving cultural destination. Leeds is a city rich in culture, architecture and attractions and is consistently ranked by popular culture magazines as one of the UK’s favorite cities. Leeds is packed with museums, shopping centers, restaurants and a busy night life, which combine to enhance the students’ university experience and make for a perfect setting for university study and world class soccer.