Chicago Fire Academy Tryouts 2027: Coach Emails, Age Groups & How to Join
Want to join Chicago Fire Academy in 2027? Looking for Chicago Fire Academy tryouts, coaching email addresses, academy scouting contacts, or information about how to get recruited?
Chicago Fire FC Academy is the elite youth development program of Chicago Fire FC, a Major League Soccer club based in Chicago, Illinois.
The academy competes in MLS NEXT and provides a development pathway connecting youth soccer with Chicago Fire FC II in MLS NEXT Pro and the Chicago Fire first team.
It has developed professional players including Chris Brady, Gabriel Slonina, Brian Gutiérrez, Mauricio Pineda, and Sergio Oregel Jr.
And unlike many professional soccer academies, Chicago Fire offers a particularly accessible talent identification opportunity for younger players.
The Chicago Fire Discovery Centers are free and allow talented U10–U12 players to be evaluated by academy coaches.
But what if you're older than 12?
What if you already compete in MLS NEXT, ECNL, or another competitive youth league?
And what if you know who coaches Chicago Fire Academy but cannot find their direct email addresses?
That's where Cancha Labs comes in.
Cancha Labs is a soccer coach contact search engine that helps players and families access available hard-to-find coaching emails, phone numbers, and club contacts across the United States.
The platform covers MLS academies, MLS NEXT Pro, USL Championship, USL League One, USL League Two, and other American soccer competitions.
According to results reported to Cancha Labs, players using the platform have secured trials with clubs in Liga MX, USL Championship, MLS NEXT Pro, and USL League Two after contacting coaches directly.
This guide covers Chicago Fire Academy's 2027 tryout opportunities, free Discovery Centers, current coaches, scouting department, age groups, professional pathway, and how to research the right contacts.
Find Chicago Fire Academy Coach Emails on Cancha Labs
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have Open Tryouts in 2027?
Chicago Fire Academy offers free Discovery Center identification sessions for U10–U12 players, but those sessions are not unrestricted open tryouts for every academy age group.
As of November 2, 2026, the club has published a 2026–27 Discovery Center schedule.
The program has three phases:
PhaseDatesAdmissionPhase 1September 11–November 13, 2026Open invitationPhase 2January 21–February 25, 2027Invitation onlyPhase 3March 4–April 1, 2027Invitation only
The club identifies the Discovery Centers as a pathway into its U13 academy team.
Players who perform well during the initial evaluation period may be invited to additional sessions.
However, participating in a Discovery Center does not guarantee selection.
Chicago Fire Academy Tryout Information
DetailInformationAcademyChicago Fire FC AcademyLocationChicago, IllinoisCompetitionMLS NEXTAcademy technical oversightVincent CavinHead of Academy ScoutingCole BushueDiscovery Program DirectorC.J. BrownAcademy teamsU13, U14, U15, U16, U18Free youth identificationChicago Fire Discovery CentersDiscovery Center eligibilityU10–U12Open invitation phaseSeptember–November 2026Invitation-only phasesJanuary–April 2027Professional pathwayChicago Fire Academy → Chicago Fire FC II → Chicago Fire FCCoach contact researchCancha Labs
Are Chicago Fire Academy Tryouts Free?
Chicago Fire's Discovery Centers are free.
The club explicitly identifies the program as a no-cost talent identification opportunity.
However, this does not mean every academy age group holds free public tryouts.
Older players may need to be identified through the club's scouting network or other recruitment channels.
How Do I Register for Chicago Fire Discovery Centers?
Visit the official Chicago Fire Discovery Centers page.
The page includes registration information, program details, and the published schedule.
Official Chicago Fire Discovery Center Registration
Registration or attendance does not guarantee progression to the next evaluation phase.
Can Older Players Try Out for Chicago Fire Academy?
Potentially.
Chicago Fire operates U13, U14, U15, U16, and U18 academy teams.
However, its free Discovery Center program specifically targets U10–U12 players.
Players in older age groups should research the club's scouting structure and appropriate recruitment contacts.
The club's published 2026–27 Discovery Center schedule should not be advertised as open U15, U16, or U18 academy tryouts.
Find Chicago Fire Academy Scouting Contacts
Chicago Fire Discovery Center Locations and Dates
One of the program's biggest advantages is that Chicago Fire holds identification sessions across multiple communities.
The 2026 open invitation schedule includes locations throughout Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.
Chicago Fire Discovery Center Schedule — Fall 2026
DateLocationSeptember 11Elgin, Illinois — Judson UniversitySeptember 18South Lawndale, Chicago — La VillitaSeptember 25Waukegan, IllinoisSeptember 28North Lawndale, Chicago — Douglass ParkOctober 2Crown Point, IndianaOctober 9West Pullman, Chicago — Kroc CenterOctober 12Milwaukee, Wisconsin — Uihlein Soccer ParkOctober 19South Lawndale, Chicago — La VillitaOctober 23Austin, Chicago — Intentional SportsOctober 26North Lawndale, Chicago — Douglass ParkOctober 30Austin, Chicago — Intentional SportsNovember 2West Pullman, Chicago — Kroc CenterNovember 6La Grange, Illinois — Max McCookNovember 13Aurora, Illinois — Team Chicago
As of November 2, 2026, the November 6 and November 13 sessions are the remaining published fall dates.
Registration availability should be confirmed directly with the club.
Dates and locations are subject to change.
Are There Chicago Fire Academy Tryouts in Milwaukee?
Chicago Fire scheduled a Discovery Center session in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on October 12, 2026.
The event was part of the club's broader talent identification program.
That date has passed.
Families should monitor the official Discovery Center page for future opportunities.
Are There Chicago Fire Academy Tryouts in Indiana?
Chicago Fire scheduled a Discovery Center session in Crown Point, Indiana, on October 2, 2026.
The program is not limited exclusively to players living within Chicago city limits.
Are There Chicago Fire Academy Tryouts in Aurora?
Yes.
The club scheduled a Discovery Center session in Aurora, Illinois, for November 13, 2026.
Players should check eligibility and registration requirements before attending.
Are There Chicago Fire Academy Tryouts in Elgin?
Chicago Fire scheduled a Discovery Center session at Judson University in Elgin on September 11, 2026.
That event has passed.
Check the Official Chicago Fire Discovery Center Schedule
What Are Chicago Fire Discovery Centers?
Chicago Fire Discovery Centers are free youth soccer talent identification programs designed to identify potential future academy players.
The program serves U10–U12 players.
Its purpose is to give talented young players an opportunity to be evaluated by Chicago Fire coaches without immediately leaving their existing youth clubs.
During Discovery Center sessions, participants take part in organized on-field activities.
Academy coaches observe their performance and development potential.
Do Players Have to Leave Their Current Club?
The club describes Discovery Center sessions as supplemental to existing club commitments.
This means the program is designed to provide additional evaluation opportunities rather than automatically replacing a player's regular youth team.
Families should still confirm scheduling and registration requirements.
Can Discovery Center Players Join Chicago Fire Academy?
Yes.
The program is specifically designed to identify potential players for the academy's U13 team.
Chicago Fire publishes lists of players who progressed from the Discovery Center pathway into its academy.
Which Youth Clubs Have Sent Players to Chicago Fire Academy?
The club's published Discovery Center lists include players from organizations such as:
Chicago Fire Youth Soccer Club
Illinois Magic FC
Sockers FC Chicago
FC United
Galaxy SC
Bloomingdale Lightning FC
Indiana Elite FC
Deportivo 59 FC
Libertyville FC 1974
Jahbat FC
Force Football Club
Washington-area and other regional youth programs
These examples demonstrate that the club identifies talent from multiple organizations.
Participation at one of these clubs does not guarantee an academy invitation.
Is the Chicago Fire Discovery Center the Same as Chicago Fire Academy?
No.
The Discovery Centers are talent identification programs.
The academy is the club's elite youth development program competing in MLS NEXT.
A player attending a Discovery Center has not automatically joined the academy.
Who Is the Chicago Fire Academy Director in 2026–2027?
Vincent Cavin oversees Chicago Fire Academy as Chicago Fire FC Technical Director.
This is an important change for the 2026–27 season.
Chicago Fire announced on September 2, 2026, that Cavin would take over academy technical oversight following Gary Lewis's departure.
Lewis subsequently left the club to become Academy Technical Director at Orlando City SC.
Older Chicago Fire Academy articles may still identify Gary Lewis as the academy's leader.
For the 2026–27 season, Vincent Cavin is the correct published technical leader overseeing the academy.
Who Is Vincent Cavin?
Vincent Cavin joined Chicago Fire in early 2025 as Director of Methodology and Talent Manager.
His role involved coordinating player development and the club's playing philosophy across the academy and professional teams.
Before joining Chicago, Cavin worked with the United States men's national team.
He also spent more than a decade working within the Swiss national team system.
His experience includes international coaching, technical development, and performance analysis.
Chicago Fire identifies him as holding a UEFA Pro License.
How Can I Find Vincent Cavin's Email Address?
Chicago Fire publishes Cavin's name and responsibilities in its official academy staff directory.
However, his direct individual email address is not listed alongside his biography.
Players can use Cancha Labs to research available professional contact information associated with Chicago Fire Academy.
Search Chicago Fire Academy Coaching Contacts
Is Gary Lewis Still Chicago Fire Academy Director?
No.
Chicago Fire announced his departure in September 2026.
The club stated that Lewis would become Academy Technical Director at Orlando City SC.
For Chicago Fire recruitment research, players should avoid relying on outdated staff lists that identify Lewis as the current academy director.
Who Handles Chicago Fire Academy Scouting?
Cole Bushue is Head of Academy Scouting.
This is one of the most relevant published positions for players trying to understand Chicago Fire's recruitment structure.
Bushue leads the academy's scouting efforts.
His background includes:
Youth talent identification
College soccer recruiting
U.S. Soccer youth national team scouting
Youth club player development
Professional soccer scouting
He previously worked with DePaul University's men's soccer program and U.S. Soccer youth national teams.
How Can I Find Cole Bushue's Email Address?
Chicago Fire's official staff directory identifies Bushue as Head of Academy Scouting.
However, the page does not publish his individual email address alongside his profile.
Cancha Labs helps players research available coaching and scouting contacts associated with Chicago Fire Academy.
Find Chicago Fire Academy Scout Emails
Who Runs Chicago Fire Discovery Centers?
C.J. Brown is Director of Discovery Programs.
Brown is a former Chicago Fire player and a member of the club's Ring of Fire.
He played for Chicago for 13 seasons and later worked as a coach in Major League Soccer.
His current role focuses on the Discovery Centers and identifying young players who may progress into the academy.
For U10–U12 players, Brown's department is especially relevant.
Chicago Fire Academy Coaching Staff in 2026–2027
Chicago Fire officially announced its 2026–27 academy coaching staff on September 2, 2026.
This is particularly useful because several coaching assignments changed from the previous season.
Chicago Fire Academy Coaches — 2026–27
NamePositionVincent CavinChicago Fire FC Technical Director, Academy OversightEmil Kjersgaard HansenU18 Head CoachWill ThorntonU18 Assistant CoachSergio LozanoU16 Head CoachSeán GeogheganU16 Assistant CoachFrancesco LettieriU15 Head CoachRicardo PintoU15 Assistant CoachMaxime LecluseU14 Head CoachDavid AbidorU14 Assistant CoachTanner ChassmanU13 Head CoachSelim TalbiIndividual Development CoachBruno CardosoAcademy Goalkeeping CoachCole BushueHead of Academy ScoutingC.J. BrownDirector of Discovery ProgramsDaniel FerrarHead of Academy InsightsDouglas WrightHead of Academy AnalysisAdam GraingerHead of Physical Performance and Player WellnessPatrick StantonHead of EducationRachael JankowskyHead of Player Care and WellbeingAlex CastilloDirector of Chicago Fire FC II and Academy Operations
Official source: Chicago Fire 2026–27 Academy Coaching Staff Announcement
Who Is Emil Kjersgaard Hansen?
Emil Kjersgaard Hansen is Chicago Fire Academy's U18 Head Coach.
He joined Chicago in 2025 after coaching within the academy structure of Norwegian club Tromsø IL.
His previous experience also includes youth coaching at Lyngby Boldklub in Denmark.
Hansen holds UEFA coaching qualifications, including an Elite Youth A License.
The U18 level is especially important because players are approaching professional and college opportunities.
Who Is Sergio Lozano?
Sergio Lozano is Chicago Fire Academy's U16 Head Coach.
He joined the academy in March 2026.
Before arriving in Chicago, Lozano worked within the Valencia CF youth system in Spain.
He also previously served as Director of Development and Head Coach within Columbus Crew Academy.
His background includes youth development in both the United States and Spain.
Who Is Seán Geoghegan?
Seán Geoghegan is Chicago Fire Academy's U16 Assistant Coach.
He joined the club ahead of the 2026–27 season.
His previous experience includes coaching and academy leadership at Waterford FC in Ireland.
He holds UEFA A and Elite Youth A coaching qualifications.
Who Is Francesco Lettieri?
Francesco Lettieri is Chicago Fire Academy's U15 Head Coach.
He previously coached the U14 team.
For the 2026–27 season, he moved with the 2012 birth-year group into the U15 category.
Before joining Chicago, Lettieri coached within the FC Lugano youth system in Switzerland.
Who Is Ricardo Pinto?
Ricardo Pinto is Chicago Fire Academy's U15 Assistant Coach.
He joined the academy after coaching at several NCAA Division I programs.
His previous experience includes roles at Stetson, UNC Wilmington, Loyola Chicago, Northwestern, and Northeastern.
His background may be particularly relevant to older youth players interested in understanding both professional and college development environments.
Who Is Maxime Lecluse?
Maxime Lecluse is Chicago Fire Academy's U14 Head Coach.
He joined the club for the 2026–27 season.
Before arriving in Chicago, Lecluse spent approximately a decade coaching at Standard de Liège in Belgium.
His responsibilities included coaching younger academy teams and scouting.
Who Is David Abidor?
David Abidor is Chicago Fire Academy's U14 Assistant Coach.
He previously worked with the academy's U15 team.
Before joining the elite academy, he coached within Chicago Fire Youth Club.
Abidor also played professionally in the United States, including with FC Tulsa.
Who Is Tanner Chassman?
Tanner Chassman is Chicago Fire Academy's U13 Head Coach.
He previously coached at Charlotte FC Academy and Houston Dynamo Academy.
His U13 position is especially relevant to players progressing from Chicago Fire Discovery Centers.
Who Is Selim Talbi?
Selim Talbi is Chicago Fire Academy's Individual Development Coach.
He has worked within the club's academy structure since 2018.
Talbi previously coached the U15 and U16 age groups.
He led the U15 team during its 2023–24 MLS NEXT Cup championship season.
His current responsibilities focus on individual player development rather than a single age-group head coaching assignment.
Who Is Bruno Cardoso?
Bruno Cardoso is Chicago Fire Academy's Goalkeeping Coach.
He has worked with the academy for several seasons.
Cardoso previously played professionally in Brazil and the United States.
He has also worked with the United States U15 boys' national team.
Goalkeepers researching Chicago Fire Academy should prepare both highlight footage and full-match video demonstrating their distribution, positioning, and decision-making.
Find Chicago Fire Academy Coach Emails
What Age Groups Does Chicago Fire Academy Have?
Chicago Fire officially identifies five academy teams.
Age group2026–27 Head CoachU13Tanner ChassmanU14Maxime LecluseU15Francesco LettieriU16Sergio LozanoU18Emil Kjersgaard Hansen
The club's academy teams compete in MLS NEXT and other elite youth competitions.
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have a U13 Team?
Yes.
The U13 team is the first full academy age group associated with the Discovery Center pathway.
Tanner Chassman is the U13 Head Coach.
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have a U14 Team?
Yes.
Maxime Lecluse is the U14 Head Coach for 2026–27.
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have a U15 Team?
Yes.
Francesco Lettieri is the U15 Head Coach.
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have a U16 Team?
Yes.
Sergio Lozano is the U16 Head Coach.
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have a U17 Team?
The club's published 2026–27 academy structure does not list a separate U17 team.
Players should confirm whether their birth year corresponds to the U16 or U18 development group.
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have a U18 Team?
Yes.
Emil Kjersgaard Hansen is the U18 Head Coach.
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have a U19 Team?
The current academy team listing identifies U18 as the oldest age group.
Chicago Fire has historically operated older academy teams under different competition classifications.
Players should confirm the current structure before pursuing an evaluation.
Is Chicago Fire Academy Free?
Chicago Fire states that its academy is a funded program.
The club pays for:
Player registration
Team travel
Uniforms
Academy teams train approximately four to five times per week during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
Do Parents Pay Chicago Fire Academy Tuition?
The club describes its academy as funded.
However, families should confirm whether any additional personal expenses, transportation arrangements, or other costs apply.
How Many Players Are on Chicago Fire Academy Teams?
The club states that team rosters generally range from 16 to 24 players.
Roster sizes vary by age group.
This helps explain why academy selection is competitive.
How Often Does Chicago Fire Academy Train?
The academy reports approximately four to five training sessions per week during the main season.
Players also compete in MLS NEXT and other sanctioned competitions.
Official Chicago Fire Academy Teams and Rosters
Where Does Chicago Fire Academy Train?
Chicago Fire Academy trains at the Endeavor Health Performance Center in Chicago, Illinois.
The facility supports the club's academy and broader player development operations.
Chicago Fire's official academy information identifies the performance center as the home training and match environment for its five academy teams.
Is Chicago Fire Academy in Bridgeview?
Chicago Fire has historically used facilities in Bridgeview, including SeatGeek Stadium.
However, its current academy team page identifies the Endeavor Health Performance Center in Chicago as the training and match location.
Families should confirm the specific location for any trial or evaluation.
Can Chicago Fire Academy Players Train With the First Team?
Selected academy players may receive opportunities within the professional development pathway.
However, academy participation does not guarantee first-team training sessions.
Can Chicago Fire Academy Players Become Professional Soccer Players?
Yes. Chicago Fire has a documented pathway from its academy into Chicago Fire FC II and the MLS first team.
The club has developed numerous professional players.
A possible progression is:
Chicago Fire Academy → Chicago Fire FC II → Chicago Fire FC
Some academy graduates also pursue college soccer before signing professional contracts.
Which Chicago Fire Academy Players Have Reached Professional Soccer?
Chris Brady
Chris Brady developed through Chicago Fire Academy before signing a Homegrown contract.
He progressed into the club's first team and became an established MLS goalkeeper.
The club announced a new contract for Brady in September 2025.
Gabriel Slonina
Gabriel Slonina developed through Chicago Fire's youth system before becoming a professional goalkeeper.
He made his MLS debut as a teenager and later transferred to Chelsea FC.
Brian Gutiérrez
Brian Gutiérrez developed through Chicago Fire Academy before signing a professional contract.
He became an established MLS player.
Mauricio Pineda
Mauricio Pineda developed through Chicago Fire Academy before playing college soccer at the University of North Carolina.
He later returned to sign professionally with Chicago Fire.
Sergio Oregel Jr.
Sergio Oregel Jr. progressed through Chicago Fire Academy before signing a Homegrown contract.
The club announced a contract extension for him in September 2025.
Dylan Borso
Dylan Borso joined Chicago Fire Academy in 2017.
He progressed through multiple youth age groups and appeared for Chicago Fire FC II.
Borso later played college soccer at Wake Forest University before signing a Homegrown contract with Chicago Fire in December 2024.
His pathway demonstrates that academy players can pursue college soccer before returning to professional opportunities.
Christopher Cupps
Christopher Cupps developed through Chicago Fire Academy before signing directly with the first team.
The club identified him as one of the academy graduates who made their MLS debuts during Gary Lewis's tenure.
Robert Turdean
Robert Turdean is another academy graduate who signed directly with Chicago Fire's first team.
His progression demonstrates the club's continued investment in Homegrown development.
Does Joining Chicago Fire Academy Guarantee a Professional Contract?
No.
Academy participation does not guarantee a Chicago Fire II contract, MLS first-team opportunity, or international transfer.
However, the club has documented numerous examples of academy graduates progressing into professional soccer.
Chicago Fire Academy Players Who Signed Professional Contracts in 2026
Chicago Fire's 2026 season provides particularly strong examples of academy players advancing into MLS NEXT Pro.
Four Academy Players Signed With Chicago Fire II in August 2026
On August 28, 2026, Chicago Fire FC II announced the professional signings of:
DeAndre Beckford
Harrison Bernhardt
Christopher Morales
Oscar Pineda
All four had developed within Chicago Fire Academy.
DeAndre Beckford
DeAndre Beckford is a winger who played with Chicago Fire's older academy teams despite his young age.
He also received recognition for his performances in international youth competition.
The club signed him to an MLS NEXT Pro contract in August 2026.
Harrison Bernhardt
Harrison Bernhardt developed as a midfielder within the academy.
He gained experience with Chicago Fire II before signing his professional contract.
Christopher Morales
Christopher Morales progressed through Chicago Fire Academy and earned opportunities with United States youth national teams.
He appeared in the 2026 MLS NEXT All-Star Game and recorded three assists during the event.
He signed professionally with Chicago Fire II in August 2026.
Oscar Pineda
Oscar Pineda progressed through Chicago Fire Academy into Chicago Fire II.
He also represented Mexico at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup.
The club announced his professional MLS NEXT Pro contract in August 2026.
Damyan Villanueva
Damyan Villanueva signed an MLS NEXT Pro contract with Chicago Fire II on October 1, 2026.
Villanueva developed through Chicago Fire Academy and earned opportunities with United States youth national teams.
His contract runs through the 2027–28 season, with club options for additional seasons.
These recent signings demonstrate that Chicago Fire continues to promote academy players into its professional second team.
Official Chicago Fire II Academy Signings Announcement
What Is Chicago Fire FC II?
Chicago Fire FC II is the club's professional second team competing in MLS NEXT Pro.
The team provides a competitive environment for academy graduates and other young professional players.
Is Chicago Fire II the Same as Chicago Fire Academy?
No.
Chicago Fire Academy develops youth players.
Chicago Fire II competes professionally in MLS NEXT Pro.
Chicago Fire FC competes in Major League Soccer.
These programs are connected but operate at different levels.
Can Chicago Fire Academy Players Play for Chicago Fire II?
Yes.
The club has documented numerous academy players making appearances for Chicago Fire II before signing professional contracts.
Can Chicago Fire II Players Reach MLS?
Yes.
Chicago Fire II is part of the organization's professional development pathway.
However, a second-team contract does not guarantee an MLS first-team contract.
Can Chicago Fire Academy Players Go to College?
Yes.
Chicago Fire Academy has developed players who continued into NCAA soccer.
The club's development structure includes educational support.
Patrick Stanton is listed as Head of Education.
His responsibilities include supporting academy student-athletes and helping players balance academic and soccer development.
Does Chicago Fire Academy Have a School Program?
Chicago Fire identifies an Academy Day School Program.
The program is designed to integrate education with high-level soccer training.
Families should confirm academic arrangements directly with the club.
Can Chicago Fire Academy Players Earn College Scholarships?
Potentially.
Chicago Fire's academy leadership has emphasized preparing players for either professional soccer or college opportunities.
However, academy participation does not guarantee a scholarship or university admission.
How Does Chicago Fire Academy Scout Players?
Chicago Fire identifies talent through multiple channels.
These include:
Discovery Centers
Academy scouting
Competitive youth matches
Regional youth club networks
Player development evaluations
The Discovery Centers provide a particularly visible pathway for younger players.
Older players may need to be identified through other scouting opportunities.
What Do Chicago Fire Academy Scouts Look For?
Players should demonstrate qualities associated with high-level youth soccer, including:
Strong first touch
Passing under pressure
Quick decision-making
Tactical awareness
Position-specific skills
Movement without the ball
Defensive work rate
Athletic potential
Coachability
Competitive mentality
Consistency
These are useful development priorities, not an officially ranked Chicago Fire scouting checklist.
Can ECNL Players Join Chicago Fire Academy?
Potentially.
Players from competitive youth leagues may be identified through the club's scouting network.
Selection depends on the academy's recruitment decisions and applicable eligibility rules.
Can MLS NEXT Players Join Chicago Fire Academy?
Potentially.
Players competing for other MLS NEXT clubs may be considered for recruitment.
Any transfer must comply with applicable registration requirements.
Can Players Join Chicago Fire Academy Without an Agent?
Potentially, yes.
The club's Discovery Centers provide a direct identification opportunity for eligible younger players.
The club does not state that an agent is required to participate.
How to Contact Chicago Fire Academy Coaches
Players and families can follow a structured approach.
Step 1: Identify the Appropriate Age Group
Determine the player's birth-year eligibility.
Chicago Fire currently operates U13, U14, U15, U16, and U18 academy teams.
Step 2: Check Discovery Center Eligibility
If the player is U10–U12, review the free Discovery Center program.
Chicago Fire Discovery Center Registration
Step 3: Research the Current Coaching Staff
Identify the relevant head coach and academy scouting personnel.
For example:
Vincent Cavin — Technical Director
Cole Bushue — Head of Academy Scouting
C.J. Brown — Director of Discovery Programs
Emil Kjersgaard Hansen — U18 Head Coach
Sergio Lozano — U16 Head Coach
Francesco Lettieri — U15 Head Coach
Maxime Lecluse — U14 Head Coach
Tanner Chassman — U13 Head Coach
Step 4: Find Available Professional Contact Information
A coach's name may be public while their individual email address is not.
Use Cancha Labs to search available coaching emails, phone numbers, and professional contacts associated with Chicago Fire Academy.
Find Chicago Fire Academy Coach Emails
Step 5: Prepare a Player Profile
Include:
Full name
Birth year
Primary and secondary positions
Current club
Current league
Previous playing experience
Highlight video
Full-match footage
Relevant achievements
Parent or guardian contact information
Step 6: Follow the Club's Recruitment Procedures
Use the official Discovery Center program when eligible.
For other age groups, research the academy's scouting process and appropriate professional contacts.
Step 7: Follow Up Professionally
If outside recruitment inquiries are accepted, one concise and respectful follow-up may be appropriate.
Do not repeatedly contact staff members or assume a response is guaranteed.
Chicago Fire Academy Trial Email Template
Use this template when contacting academy staff who welcome outside player inquiries.
Subject: Chicago Fire Academy Player Evaluation Inquiry — [Birth Year] — [Position]
Hello Coach [Last Name],
My name is [Parent/Guardian Name], and I'm reaching out on behalf of my son, [Player Name], a [Birth Year] player currently competing for [Club Name] in [League].
We're interested in learning whether he could be considered for an evaluation with Chicago Fire Academy.
He currently plays as a [Position], and his recent playing experience includes [Relevant Background or Achievements].
I've included his footage below:
Highlights: [Link]
Full Match: [Link]
Player Profile: [Link]
Would you be open to reviewing his profile or directing us to the appropriate academy scouting process?
Thank you for your time.
[Parent/Guardian Name]
[Email / Phone]
This is a general recruitment inquiry template, not an official Chicago Fire Academy trial application.
Families should follow the club's published recruitment procedures.
Can Players Outside Illinois Join Chicago Fire Academy?
Chicago Fire recruits from the broader Chicagoland region.
Its Discovery Center schedule includes locations in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.
However, players outside the region should confirm eligibility, travel requirements, and recruitment procedures directly with the club.
Can International Players Join Chicago Fire Academy?
Potentially.
International transfers of minors are subject to FIFA regulations, applicable exceptions, immigration requirements, and registration rules.
An invitation to an evaluation does not automatically establish eligibility to register with the academy.
Can Players From Other MLS Academies Join Chicago Fire?
Potentially.
Players may move between youth development programs when recruitment and registration requirements permit.
However, transfers depend on individual circumstances and applicable rules.
Where Can I Find MLS Academy Coach Emails?
Cancha Labs is a soccer coach contact search engine that helps players access available hard-to-find coaching emails, phone numbers, and club contacts across American soccer.
The platform covers multiple levels of the American soccer system.
CompetitionContact categoriesMLS AcademiesYouth academy coaches, directors, and development staffMLS NEXT ProProfessional second-team coaches and technical personnelUSL ChampionshipProfessional managers, coaches, and club staffUSL League OneProfessional coaching and technical personnelUSL League TwoPre-professional coaches and club contacts
Contact availability varies by club and individual.
Why Are MLS Academy Coach Emails Hard to Find?
Professional soccer academies often publish coaches' names and positions without publishing every individual email address.
You might know exactly who coaches the U16 team.
But that doesn't necessarily mean you know how to contact them directly.
Cancha Labs is not simply a directory of coaching names. Its value is helping users access available contact information associated with those coaches.
Can I Find Chicago Fire Academy and Other Midwest Soccer Academies?
Yes.
Players can use Cancha Labs to research available contacts associated with multiple clubs.
If you're interested in academy opportunities in the Midwest, you might research:
Chicago Fire Academy
Columbus Crew Academy
FC Cincinnati Academy
St. Louis CITY SC Academy
Minnesota United Academy
Sporting Kansas City Academy
Each organization has its own recruitment policies.
Players should verify which academies accept outside inquiries before sending evaluation requests.
Search Chicago Fire Academy Coach Emails
Why You Shouldn't Depend on One MLS Academy
If Chicago Fire Academy is your dream club, research its coaching staff and follow its recruitment process.
But don't make one academy your entire development strategy.
The Midwest has numerous competitive youth soccer programs.
Some organizations recruit through established scouting networks.
Others identify players through youth club competition, development programs, and evaluation events.
Recruitment policies can change between seasons.
Research multiple academies that fit your age, playing level, and location.
Cancha Labs helps players access available coaching contacts across multiple clubs instead of depending exclusively on personal connections.
Find Soccer Coach Emails on Cancha Labs
Chicago Fire Academy Tryouts and Coach Emails: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chicago Fire Academy have open tryouts in 2027?
Chicago Fire offers free Discovery Center identification sessions for U10–U12 players. The 2026–27 schedule includes invitation-only phases in early 2027. These are not unrestricted open tryouts for every academy age group.
How do I register for Chicago Fire Academy tryouts?
Eligible younger players can register through the official Discovery Center page. Older players should research the club's scouting process.
Are Chicago Fire Discovery Centers free?
Yes. Chicago Fire identifies the program as free.
What ages can attend Chicago Fire Discovery Centers?
The program is designed for U10–U12 players.
Where are Chicago Fire Discovery Centers located?
The 2026–27 schedule includes locations throughout Chicagoland, Indiana, and Wisconsin.
Where can I find Chicago Fire Academy coach emails?
Cancha Labs helps users research available coaching emails, phone numbers, and professional contacts associated with Chicago Fire Academy.
Who is the Chicago Fire Academy Director?
Vincent Cavin oversees the academy as Chicago Fire FC Technical Director.
Is Gary Lewis still Chicago Fire Academy Director?
No. Chicago Fire announced his departure in September 2026.
Who is Head of Chicago Fire Academy Scouting?
Cole Bushue is Head of Academy Scouting.
Who runs Chicago Fire Discovery Centers?
C.J. Brown is Director of Discovery Programs.
Who is the Chicago Fire U18 Head Coach?
Emil Kjersgaard Hansen is the U18 Head Coach.
Who is the Chicago Fire U16 Head Coach?
Sergio Lozano is the U16 Head Coach.
Who is the Chicago Fire U15 Head Coach?
Francesco Lettieri is the U15 Head Coach.
Who is the Chicago Fire U14 Head Coach?
Maxime Lecluse is the U14 Head Coach.
Who is the Chicago Fire U13 Head Coach?
Tanner Chassman is the U13 Head Coach.
Who is the Chicago Fire Academy Goalkeeper Coach?
Bruno Cardoso is the Academy Goalkeeping Coach.
Does Chicago Fire Academy have a U15 team?
Yes. Francesco Lettieri is the U15 Head Coach.
Does Chicago Fire Academy have a U16 team?
Yes. Sergio Lozano is the U16 Head Coach.
Does Chicago Fire Academy have a U18 team?
Yes. Emil Kjersgaard Hansen is the U18 Head Coach.
Is Chicago Fire Academy free?
The club describes the academy as a funded program covering player registration, travel, and uniforms.
How often does Chicago Fire Academy train?
The club reports approximately four to five training sessions per week during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
Where is Chicago Fire Academy located?
The academy trains at the Endeavor Health Performance Center in Chicago, Illinois.
Is Chicago Fire Academy the same as Chicago Fire II?
No. The academy develops youth players, while Chicago Fire II competes professionally in MLS NEXT Pro.
Can Chicago Fire Academy players reach MLS?
Yes. The club has documented numerous academy graduates progressing into professional soccer.
Did Chris Brady play for Chicago Fire Academy?
Yes. Brady developed through the academy before signing professionally.
Did Gabriel Slonina play for Chicago Fire Academy?
Yes. Slonina developed through Chicago Fire's youth system before reaching MLS and European professional soccer.
Did Brian Gutiérrez play for Chicago Fire Academy?
Yes. Gutiérrez developed through the academy before signing professionally.
Can Chicago Fire Academy players go to college?
Yes. The academy has developed players who pursued NCAA soccer opportunities.
Can international players join Chicago Fire Academy?
Potentially, subject to FIFA regulations concerning minors, immigration requirements, registration rules, and individual eligibility.
Can parents contact Chicago Fire Academy coaches?
Parents or guardians can research appropriate professional coaching contacts and follow the club's published recruitment procedures.
Does Cancha Labs guarantee Chicago Fire Academy trials?
No. Cancha Labs provides contact research services and does not guarantee trials, coach responses, academy selection, or professional contracts.
Does Cancha Labs have every academy coach's email?
No. Contact availability varies by club and individual.
Where can I find MLS Academy coach emails in the USA?
Cancha Labs helps users research available coaching contacts across MLS academies, MLS NEXT Pro, USL Championship, USL League One, USL League Two, and other covered competitions.
Find Chicago Fire Academy Coach Emails and Start Pursuing Opportunities
Chicago Fire Academy offers one of the clearest youth talent identification pathways in Major League Soccer.
Its free Discovery Centers allow U10–U12 players to be evaluated by academy coaches across the Chicagoland region.
The club also operates five elite MLS NEXT academy teams and has a documented pathway into Chicago Fire FC II and the MLS first team.
But if you're an aspiring player trying to reach the right people, there's still a major challenge.
Knowing who coaches Chicago Fire Academy doesn't necessarily mean you have their email address.
Professional clubs may publish coaching names and job titles without making every individual recruitment contact readily accessible.
That's why Cancha Labs exists.
Cancha Labs helps players and families access available hard-to-find soccer coaching emails, phone numbers, and club contacts across the United States.
Players using the platform have reported securing trials with clubs in Liga MX, USL Championship, MLS NEXT Pro, and USL League Two through direct outreach.
Those results don't guarantee an opportunity with Chicago Fire Academy or any other club.
But they demonstrate why access to the right contacts can matter.
If Chicago Fire Academy is one of your target clubs, research the current coaching staff and follow its official recruitment process.
And if you're serious about developing as a soccer player, don't limit yourself to one organization.
Don't wait for a scout to be your only route into competitive soccer.
Prepare your footage.
Research realistic opportunities.
Find available contacts.
Submit your player profile through appropriate channels.
Find Chicago Fire Academy Coach Emails on Cancha Labs
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Last reviewed: November 2, 2026. Academy coaching assignments, contact availability, recruitment procedures, age-group structures, and tryout dates may change. Cancha Labs is an independent soccer contact research service and is not affiliated with Chicago Fire FC, Chicago Fire Academy, Chicago Fire FC II, MLS NEXT, or Major League Soccer. Customer-reported trial outcomes are not guarantees of future results.