August 17th 2023.
Recently, Republic FC made a major announcement - Da’vian Kimbrough, a member of their youth development academy, has signed his first professional contract and become the youngest professional athlete in American team sports history. Da’vian has been with Republic FC for three years, and the terms of the contract have not been disclosed.
The club is excited to see Da’vian's journey with them just beginning. Todd Dunivant, President and General Manager of Republic FC, spoke of Da’vian's commitment to his dream of becoming an elite player, and the club is honored that the Kimbrough family and Da’vian have chosen Republic FC to support his professional pathway.
Head Coach Mark Briggs also spoke highly of Da’vian's growth as a player and person, noting his tremendous focus, commitment and dedication. Academy Director Eder Quintanilla added that with each player that comes through the academy, the approach is unique and tailored to help the individual find their best journey. Da’vian has certainly taken advantage of such opportunities, playing up one age division since joining Republic FC’s Academy in 2021, and scoring a team-leading 27 goals in 31 matches in his first season.
Da’vian also competed in the Bassevelde U13 Cup, one of the most prestigious youth tournaments across the globe. He scored six goals and was named the tournament MVP, leading New York Red Bulls Academy to be the first MLS club to lift the championship trophy. This was a major accomplishment, as the tournament has seen other notable footballers such as 2022 Premier League MVP Kevin De Bruyne and Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibault Courtois get their start.
Da’vian's training schedule will be modified and monitored with the club’s sports medicine staff, and he will continue his studies. He will also be able to join Republic FC’s education partner – Elk Grove Charter School – in the future. Da’vian is the sixth Republic FC Academy player to sign a professional contract with the club and the 25th to sign a professional contract overall.
Da’vian will be eligible for selection ahead of Saturday’s match against Birmingham Legion FC at Protective Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast in English and Spanish on FOX40.com, the FOX40 News Mobile App, Antenna 40.2, and streaming on ESPN+. Republic FC’s next home match is on August 26, when the club hosts its 10th Season Celebration Match at historic Hughes Stadium.
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