13-Year-Old Da’vian Kimbrough Makes History as Youngest Pro Player in US Soccer
13-year-old Da’vian Kimbrough has made waves in the world of soccer by signing a professional contract with Sacramento Republic FC. This milestone achievement not only makes him the youngest pro player in US soccer history but also the youngest professional athlete in American team sports history.
Kimbrough, who has been a member of the Republic’s youth development academy since 2021, has demonstrated exceptional talent, focus, commitment, and dedication. He has shown tremendous potential and is poised to flourish both on and off the field.
Excited about this young prodigy’s future, Republic coach Mark Briggs commented, A young player’s path is never the same as the person seated next to them. Da’vian has shown tremendous focus, commitment, and dedication, as well as a willingness to embrace the challenging road ahead of him. Over the last two years, he has demonstrated his tremendous potential, and our goal is to continue to support and help him grow as a player and person.
To ensure Kimbrough’s well-rounded development, the Republic has devised a modified training schedule that will be closely monitored by their sports medicine staff. Additionally, he will continue his education by enrolling at Elk Grover Charter School in Sacramento County.
Eder Quintanilla, the academy director, expressed his enthusiasm for Kimbrough’s remarkable journey, stating, Da’vian is a special player who has thrived in difficult and challenging environments. We’re excited to be a part of the next step in his development and continue to support his professional dream.
Kimbrough has already displayed his exceptional skills on the international stage, being named MVP of the Bassevelde U13 Cup, a competition that featured youth academy teams from around the world. He was also recruited as a guest player by the New York Red Bulls Academy.
Although the club’s announcement has created excitement, the signing is still subject to approval by the league and the United States Soccer Federation. Once confirmed, Kimbrough’s entry into the professional soccer realm will be officially sealed, making him a trailblazer in the sport.
This historic event marks a significant moment for US soccer and highlights the importance of nurturing young talent. Da’vian Kimbrough’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes everywhere, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with dedication, perseverance, and unwavering belief in their abilities.
As Kimbrough embarks on his professional journey at an age when most are just beginning to find their footing in the sport, the world eagerly awaits his progress and the impact he will undoubtedly make on the future of US soccer.
