Boyds, MD (August 7, 2018) – Santino Quaranta and Adam Wrede have been announced as the head coaches for the Washington Spirit Academy – Maryland 2005 (U-14) and 2006 (U-13) age groups, respectively, for the 2018-2019 U.S. Soccer Girls’ Development Academy season.

The second season of play in the Girls’ Development Academy will feature separate U-13 and U-14 age groups beginning this fall in select divisions, accommodating the 2005 and 2006 birth years.

With the separation of the previously combined U-13/14 age group, Academy clubs in select division will field teams in five age groups: U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16/17 and U-17/18.

Entering his second season as Spirit Academy – MD Director, Quaranta will continue coaching the club’s U-18/19 age group, while also leading the new U-14 team, developing younger players at the beginning their Girls’ DA careers.

“The 2005 and 2006 age groups are the foundation and future of our club,” said Quaranta. “I’m excited to work Adam [Wrede] and create a teaching environment that helps these young ladies excel for many years in the DA.”

Also in his second season with the club, Wrede will lead the Spirit Academy – MD U-16/17 team, along with the new U-13 team during the upcoming season.

“We have an amazing young staff who have been involved in U.S. Soccer’s recently restructured coaching education,” said Wrede. “Our two youngest age groups are an exciting bunch and it’s an honor to work alongside Santino with the 2006s and 2005s.”

Players interested in trying out for the Spirit Academy – Maryland program should contact Santino Quaranta at squaranta@washspirit.com.

For more information on the Washington Spirit Academy, visit washingtonspirit.com/da.