“At Sporting Iowa our goal is to help players reach their goals and this is what Elvir has done. He has reminded all of our young Iowa players that it is possible to reach the top level if you set high standards and always look for ways to improve your game."  Gareth Smith, Sporting Iowa Coach/Regional ODP Coach.

As a standout and always dedicated player, this opportunity has been a long time coming, however, with a simple letter, Elvir’s world has changed.

In late December, Elvir competed alongside his 1998 ODP Region II teammates at an Inter-Regional tournament held at IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL. With a standout performance, he was able to catch the eye of National coaches.

Just days later Elvir received a letter that would present the next step in his journey to play at the highest level - an invitation to the USMNT U17 Residency Program. Within days he would be on a plane to Florida.

At the USMNT U17 Residency Program, Elvir will live amongst other players like himself at IMG Academy where they will train daily in state-of-the-art facilities, and attend classes at St. Stephens Episcopal School.

The U17 Residency Program has given players an opportunity to grow and move up the ladder in the world of soccer and has been home to other great players like Damarcus Beasley, Landon Donovan and Michal Bradley to name a few.

The coaches and staff of Sporting Iowa are very proud and excited for Elvir as he takes this next step and look forward to watching him on his journey.

 “There is no doubt that Elvir has flourished from being in a competitive environment and we believe Sporting Iowa is the best vehicle to provide this. Sporting Iowa and the clubs associated with it, has once again proved that they are the pinnacle for young player development in the state of Iowa.” 

-John “Shedzy” Sheridan – Sporting Iowa

“Elvir is a young player destined for the top. He has an insatiable desire to succeed and a big dream to become the best football player that he can. He lives and breathes the game. I have no doubt that being in a full-time program with the u/17 National Team will help him to become a great goal-scorer!

It is always a pleasure for a coach to see a player go to the next level. I have a feeling that I will continue to be a proud coach as Elvir progresses to many next levels”  

- Daryn “Ozzie” White – Sporting Iowa u/18 Coach.

For more information on the USMNT U17 Residency Program, visit http://www.ussoccer.com/us-under17-mens-national-team/residency