Combination of 501c3 foundations promises to be a “game changer” for soccer in Northeast Florida
Sporting JAX, together with its non-profit wing Sporting JAX Foundation, have joined forces with Florida Elite Soccer Academy (FESA), one of the largest and most successful youth soccer academies in the United States. Together, they will create Sporting JAX Soccer Academy, to establish one of the largest and most comprehensive youth-to-pro soccer pathways in the country.
With over 12,000 registered FESA members across the First Coast and beyond, this merger will combine Florida Elite’s renowned youth and pre-professional programs with Sporting JAX’s professional-level operations, resulting in the largest integrated youth and professional soccer platform in the state.
Starting in January 2025, Florida Elite will begin the transition to the Sporting JAX Youth brand, which will include a uniform redesign to align with Sporting JAX’s team colors.
“We’ve worked closely with Florida Elite since our club’s formation in 2020, and we’re thrilled to combine with Florida’s largest and most successful youth soccer organization,” said Steve Livingstone, President and CEO of Sporting JAX. “Steven, Sean and their team have built an exceptional program, and this partnership reflects our shared values and commitment to elevating opportunities in soccer for athletes, families and communities across the state and hopefully beyond.”
Livingstone added, “We are honored that Florida Elite has chosen to combine with the Sporting JAX Foundation to continue a joint non-profit operation, which will allow us to deliver a seamless transition for athletes from youth programs to professional soccer under the unifying Sporting JAX identity. We will also continue to welcome other local youth clubs and academies to ensure access to all resources that elevate soccer throughout the region.”
Founded in 2014, Florida Elite has earned a reputation as one of the premier youth soccer organizations in the country, offering programs from recreational, junior and development leagues to competitive programs through USL League 2 (men) and W-League (women) teams.
Led over the past decade by club President Steven Mail and Executive Director Sean Bubb, its players have achieved national recognition through college scholarships, championship titles and participation in the US Men’s and Women’s National Team and other International national team programs.
“Florida Elite has always prioritized providing opportunities for young players and we recognize Sporting JAX for their shared commitment to bring a true local pathway to professionalism for our players,” said Steven Mail, Florida Elite Soccer Academy President. “Together, we are committed to elevating the talents of boys and girls to ensure they reach their full potential, and we are excited for what’s to come.”
Florida Elite Executive Director Sean Bubb added, “We have worked hard over the past 10 years to grow Florida Elite Soccer Academy to the level of one of the best youth soccer organizations in the U.S. and this combination with Sporting JAX is a natural next step and progression for our organization, our families, players, coaches and administrative staff creating and delivering the first complete local pathway from youth soccer to high-level professional soccer here on the First Coast.”
The merger marks a significant step forward for youth soccer in Florida. Over the next several months, the organizations will work closely to integrate programs, rebrand operations and create a seamless pipeline for athletes to reach their full potential at every level of the sport.
For more information, visit Frequently Asked Questions regarding the collaboration.
