D.C. United U-16 Academy midfielder Jose Carranza has joined the U.S. Soccer U-17 Residency Program at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. Carranza is one of seven players to be added to the program by U-17 National Team Head Coach Richie Williamson, and as one of two players born in 1999, he is now the second youngest player to be accepted into the residency program this semester.
But, this isn’t something that is unfamiliar to the 14-year-old midfielder. During his time with the Black-and-Red, Carranza played up an age division with the U-16 team and learned early on how to adapt to the more physical style of play.
“D.C. United has helped me a lot because I’m playing two years up with the U-16 team,” said Carranza. “The intensity is really high and everyone else, including my teammates and opponents, are all bigger than me. They’re more mature so I have to adapt to that.”
While in the residency program, Carranza will train in the morning with Coach Williams of the U-17 Men’s National Team, and in the afternoons go to class with his teammates at St. Stephen’s Episcopal school. The U-17 National Team uses IMG Academy’s state-of-the-art strength-training facilities, Bermuda grass fields and brand new dormitories and meal rooms for the athletes.
“We are very excited for Jose,” said D.C. United U-16 Head Coach Tom Torres. “This opportunity will further his growth and give him the ability to train with the best players in the country. We wish him luck and can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next.”
Beginning in 1999, the U.S. Soccer U-17 Residency Program provides players from around the country with opportunities for personal and professional development as they compete and train as a team before regional and world competitions. Over 300 players have been through the full-time Residency Program. Carranza will join an elite group of players that have been in the program such as Jozy Altidore, DaMarcus Beasley, Michael Bradley, Landon Donovan and current D.C. United forward Eddie Johnson.
