PHOENIX, Dec 11, 2024—The Arizona Soccer Association (ASA) is pleased to announce a new partnership with the City of Mesa and Visit Mesa, designating Mesa as the official home for the Arizona Olympic Development Program (ODP) and its events. Mesa’s first-class facilities, services, and prime location make it the ideal partner for ASA and its ODP programs, which currently impact nearly 1,000 players across Arizona each season.
The Arizona ODP is a national player identification program for athletes ages 11-17, helping to identify talent for the U.S. Soccer regional and national teams. ASA is also excited to host the prestigious Far West ODP event in January, attracting teams from across the nation. In 2025, the event will expand to feature over 20 states and 250+ teams. State of the art facilities in Mesa, including the new Red Mountain expansion, Quail Run, Eagles Park, Lehi Sports Park, Arizona Athletic Grounds, will serve as the backdrop for these events.
ASA CEO Jonathan Berzins commented, “Arizona Soccer is pleased to announce a partnership with the City of Mesa and Visit Mesa as its home of Arizona ODP. The City of Mesa offers excellent facilities and a professional atmosphere, while Visit Mesa has every amenity for teams and families to have a memorable experience. This opportunity for Arizona Soccer and Arizona ODP will continue the strong relationship with the City of Mesa and the Arizona soccer community.”
Visit Mesa Vice President of Sports, Lance Fite, shared, “Visit Mesa is honored that Mesa, Arizona has been designated as the state’s hub for soccer development through the Olympic Development Program. This partnership between Visit Mesa and the Arizona Soccer Association will not only bring teams from across the country to our city but also celebrates our rich history and love for the game of soccer within the community. With our world-class facilities and limitless opportunities, this selection shows that Mesa continues to shine as one of the nation’s premier sports destinations.”
Andrea Moore, Director for the City of Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Department added, “Mesa is proud to be selected as the home of the Arizona Olympic Development Program for soccer. Along with the benefits of our guests competing, staying, and dining in the city, it’s a tribute to the great opportunities our facilities and staff offer the community. Mesa is on the national and regional soccer map, which gives our young people more exposure to the U.S. Olympic team and to go for the gold.”
This collaboration is a major step forward for Arizona Soccer, the City of Mesa, and the broader Arizona soccer community, further solidifying Mesa as a premier sports destination.