NCE once again took elite youth soccer development to the international stage, wrapping up an unforgettable Italian Tour. The tour, which ran from April 13th to 21st, saw four standout squads—U-15 Girls, U-13 Girls, U-14 Boys, and U-12 Boys—representing some of the best talent of NCE’s training centers from New York to California.

This year’s journey combined top-level training, international competition, and the opportunity for players to experience rich Italian culture.. The tour kicked off on  Lake Garda, where both boys and girls teams settled in for a series of daily training sessions. The scenic Lake Garda offered more than just stunning views—it set the tone for a focused and professional environment. During their stay on Lake Garda, the players also enjoyed excursions to Verona, Venice, and Sirmione, giving them a chance to explore the beauty and history of Italy between training sessions. One major highlight came in Verona, where all squads trained under the guidance of Hellas Verona Youth Academy Coaches, offering the players a glimpse into the methods and expectations of a top-tier Italian academy.

The tour culminated in Milan, where the teams competed in the prestigious YES Cup, facing top youth teams from across Europe. As it always does, the YES Cup offered a fantastic opportunity for NCE Boys and Girls to test their skills against elite international competition, showcasing their development and resilience on the pitch.

After the tournament came to a conclusion on Easter Sunday, athletes and their families explored Milan in the afternoon before coming together for a truly once in a “bucket-list” experience for many: a match in Milan’s famed San-Siro Stadium. That evening, AC Milan battled Atalanta in a Serie-A fixture that absolutely lived up to the billing.

Throughout the tour, players not only gained valuable match experience and technical growth, but also the opportunity to truly “live like a professional.” For many, it was a first glimpse into the life of a professional-style tour, with travel, recovery, and competition all woven into a tight and thrilling schedule.

The 2025 NCE Italian Tour was a blast but more importantly matched NCE’s mission—to inspire, challenge, and elevate the next generation of elite American soccer players. Thank you to our wonderful athletes that proudly represented the NCE badge on the international stage and the family members that joined us for this year’s tour. We already can’t wait for the international tours ahead to England and Brazil in August!