USA's Premier Gap Year Men's Soccer Academy.
AC PRO DEVELOPMENT: TRAIN LIKE A PRO, PLAY LIKE A CHAMP
Welcome to AC Professional Development Academy (ACPD), where the pursuit of athletic excellence meets academic rigor and personal growth. Nestled in the heart of Houston, Texas, we've created a unique environment that bridges the gap between high school graduation and collegiate soccer success. We are more than just a soccer academy; we are a launchpad for ambitious student-athletes looking to make an immediate impact at the college level and beyond.
OUR MISSION & PHILOSOPHY
To nurture well-rounded student-athletes who excel on the field, in the classroom, and in life, while preserving their Collegiate eligibility and maximizing their potential for collegiate soccer success.
THE ACPD ADVANTAGE
- Interactive video analysis to break down professional techniques
- Virtual reality training for game-like scenario practice
- Biofeedback for fine-tuning body mechanics
- Personalized skill challenges with data-driven improvement goals
- Sport-specific training enhancing explosive power, functional strength, and endurance
- Injury prevention and mobility programs
- Personalized performance plans based on position and goals
- Cutting-edge technology including GPS tracking
- AI-powered video analysis
- Interactive tactical boards for real-time formation manipulation
- Periodized tactical immersion in various playing systems
- Personalized study plans aligned with your academic goals
- Tutoring in challenging subjects
- Time management workshops for balancing athletics and academics
- Community service projects
- Effective communication training
- Leadership development workshops
- Sport-specific training enhancing explosive power, functional strength, and endurance
- Injury prevention and mobility programs
- Personalized performance plans based on position and goals
- Cutting-edge technology including GPS tracking
THE ACPD ADVANTAGE
- Interactive video analysis to break down professional techniques
- Virtual reality training for game-like scenario practice
- Biofeedback for fine-tuning body mechanics
- Personalized skill challenges with data-driven improvement goals
- AI-powered video analysis
- Interactive tactical boards for real-time formation manipulation
- Periodized tactical immersion in various playing systems
- Personalized study plans aligned with your academic goals
- Tutoring in challenging subjects
- Time management workshops for balancing athletics and academics
- Community service projects
- Effective communication training
- Leadership development workshops
WHAT MAKES ACPD SO UNIQUE
Elite Training Environment
Our program offers a high-level training experience that prepares athletes for the rigors of collegiate soccer. We combine technical, tactical, physical, and psychological training to help you excel on the field. All while saving your eligibility.
Academic Excellence
We provide flexible academic pathways. With options including fixing NCAA eligibility requirements from high school or allowing athletes to earn college credits or an associate's degree while pursuing their athletic dreams. Our approach ensures that all student-athletes are prepared for success in both their sports and academic endeavors.
Holistic Growth
Beyond soccer and academics, we focus on personal development, leadership skills, and life skills, helping athletes mature into well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges ahead.
WHY ACPD IS RIGHT FOR YOU
World-Class Leadership
- Created and directed by Aaron Champenoy, former National Coach of the Year and 2016 National Champion
- Over 20 years of college coaching experience informing our curriculum
- Training that mirrors the intensity and structure of top-tier collegiate programs
Academic Advancement
- Flexible learning options: in-person, online, or live classes through partner institutions
- Earn credits toward a bachelor’s or associate’s degree
- Customized academic counseling to meet your goals
- Enter college academically ahead while retaining athletic freshman status
Preserve Collegiate Eligibility
- Compete in 35+ matches per season in semi-professional and university environments
- Participate in prestigious leagues semi-pro leagues
- Gain invaluable competitive experience without affecting your college eligibility
- Enter college as an athletic freshman with advanced skills and experience
Comprehensive Athlete Development
Our innovative 10-month program addresses six key areas of growth:
-
- Technical
- TacticalPhysical
- Mental
- Social
- Academic
Personal Growth and Life Skills
- Time management and financial literacy training
- Stress management and effective communication skills
- Leadership development and team-building initiatives
- Nutrition guidance for peak athletic performance
- Life skills workshops preparing you for independence and success
OUR MASCOT "THE GRIFFIN"
Our mascot, the Griffin—a mythical creature with the strength of a lion and the vision of an eagle—symbolizes the qualities we aim to instill in our athletes. The Griffin represents strength, courage, and vision, mirroring our commitment to developing both the athletic and academic potential of our student-athletes.
WHY "PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT"
The name "AC Professional Development" reflects our commitment to creating a professional training environment that mirrors the demands of elite collegiate programs and professional soccer academies. We focus on developing a professional mindset in our athletes, preparing them for the challenges of collegiate and potentially professional soccer careers. Our emphasis on "Development" highlights our dedication to fostering growth in all areas—technical skills, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, performing under pressure, and personal maturity.
WHY "PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT"
The name "AC Professional Development" reflects our commitment to creating a professional training environment that mirrors the demands of elite collegiate programs and professional soccer academies. We focus on developing a professional mindset in our athletes, preparing them for the challenges of collegiate and potentially professional soccer careers. Our emphasis on "Development" highlights our dedication to fostering growth in all areas—technical skills, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, performing under pressure, and personal maturity.
COACH AARON "CHAMP" CHAMPENOY
Aaron "Champ" Champenoy, owner, director, and head coach of AC Professional Development, brings over 20 years of soccer leadership experience, highlighted by leading Hastings College to the 2016 NAIA National Championship and earning United Soccer Coaches & NAIA National Coach of the Year honors. With a collegiate record of 185-108-26, he has developed champions on and off the field, securing 5 league championships, 17 All-America selections, and 35 Academic All-League honors. His coaching philosophy centers on building trust-based relationships and taking a holistic approach to athlete development, focusing not only on soccer skills but on personal growth and character.
At AC Professional Development, Coach Champ provides a professional environment that prepares high school graduates for successful college soccer careers. His expertise in video scouting, GPS analysis, and strength programming, combined with a family-first ethos, ensures that players not only excel athletically but grow as well-rounded individuals ready for collegiate success.
Highly respected by colleagues and former players alike, Coach Champ is known for his dedication to his athletes' success and his leadership on and off the field. Former players credit him as a key mentor who helped shape their careers and personal growth, while fellow coaches regard him as a leader who consistently sets a high standard for soccer development and excellence.
Aaron "Champ" Champenoy, owner, director, and head coach of AC Professional Development, brings over 20 years of soccer leadership experience, highlighted by leading Hastings College to the 2016 NAIA National Championship and earning United Soccer Coaches & NAIA National Coach of the Year honors. With a collegiate record of 185-108-26, he has developed champions on and off the field, securing 5 league championships, 17 All-America selections, and 35 Academic All-League honors. His coaching philosophy centers on building trust-based relationships and taking a holistic approach to athlete development, focusing not only on soccer skills but on personal growth and character.
At AC Professional Development, Coach Champ provides a professional environment that prepares high school graduates for successful college soccer careers. His expertise in video scouting, GPS analysis, and strength programming, combined with a family-first ethos, ensures that players not only excel athletically but grow as well-rounded individuals ready for collegiate success.
Highly respected by colleagues and former players alike, Coach Champ is known for his dedication to his athletes' success and his leadership on and off the field. Former players credit him as a key mentor who helped shape their careers and personal growth, while fellow coaches regard him as a leader who consistently sets a high standard for soccer development and excellence.
WHO BENEFITS FROM ACPD?
JOIN THE ACPD FAMILY
Transform your soccer aspirations into reality. At ACPD, we're not just developing soccer players; we're shaping the future leaders of tomorrow. Our comprehensive approach ensures that when you step onto a college campus or professional pitch, you're not just prepared—you're primed to excel.
Take the first step towards your collegiate soccer dreams and lifelong success. Apply now and let ACPD be the catalyst for your success!