Phoenix Rising FC continues to underscore its commitment to developing young talent, as several of the club’s MLS NEXT Academy players recently experienced significant milestones, demonstrating the club’s pathway to professional soccer.
Highlighting this commitment, 16-year-old Jamison Ping recently signed his first professional contract with Phoenix Rising FC, making him one of the youngest in club history to join the pro ranks. Ping’s rapid progression is indicative of the club’s successful player development initiatives and serves as inspiration for younger academy players.
Additionally, Braxton Montgomery took a major step forward, making his professional debut during the Phoenix Rising’s USL Championship season opener against FC Tulsa. Braxton’s appearance showcased the trust and confidence the club has in its youth talent, illustrating a clear route from the academy to the first team.
Phoenix Rising FC further demonstrated the depth and quality of their academy system during this preseason by featuring seven MLS NEXT Academy players in matches against elite MLS opponents, including San Diego FC and Charlotte FC. These young talents—Alexander Balanzar De La Cruz, Zach Da Silva, Braxton Montgomery, Jamison Ping (prior to his professional signing), Pierce Rizzo, Tristan Shaw, and Jan Villegas—made impressive contributions and gained invaluable experience against top-tier competition.
Moreover, the club also provided a stage for even more academy players to showcase their talents in a competitive intrasquad scrimmage, emphasizing Phoenix Rising FC’s ongoing commitment to youth integration and development.
Additionally, Phoenix Rising FC reinforced their faith in youth prospects by signing five promising MLS NEXT players to USL Academy Contracts. Anthony Capetillo, Braxton Montgomery, Jan Villegas Pierce Rizzo, and Zach Da Silva,have all secured academy contracts, enabling them to train with the first team and participate in select professional matches while maintaining their amateur status.
These accomplishments highlight Phoenix Rising FC’s dedication to cultivating a robust pipeline of homegrown talent, ensuring the future of soccer in Arizona remains bright and promising.
