The San Jose Earthquakes Academy’s Under-15 side has etched its name into club history, earning first place in the U-16 West Pro Player Pathway Division—a milestone never achieved before. With an 8-1-1 league record and 25 points ahead of regional rivals like LAFC, Seattle Sounders FC and the LA Galaxy, the young Quakes’ consistency, identity and commitment throughout the season set them apart from the competition.
San Jose U-15 Head Coach Ivan Mirkovic credited the group's clarity of purpose from day one.
"Finishing first in the Pro Pathway West Division is something the group has truly earned,” he said. “From the start of the season, there was a clear intent about how we wanted to play and compete, and the players committed to that standard every day."
That intent was rooted in a distinct style of play the squad made their own over the course of the campaign.
"A big part of our identity is playing the Quakes style: being proactive, aggressive and purposeful both in and out of possession,” Mirkovic added. “Over the course of the season, the players really grew into that identity. You could see them not just understanding it but owning it in big moments."
Mirkovic, in his second season in charge of the U-15s, was proud of what his side accomplished while keeping eyes on what lies ahead.
"I'm proud of how they've represented themselves and the club, and this is a strong step forward, but we know there's still more ahead."
That hunger was echoed by the players themselves. U-15 captain Kayden Drolette reflected on the effort the group poured into the season.
"I'm really proud of this team and everything we've accomplished,” said Drolette, who joined the Quakes Academy after a stint with Bay Area Surf. “All the work we've put in this season—every training, every game—it doesn't go unrecognized. Earning first place in our conference for the first time in club history means a lot, but on the other hand, we know this is only the start for us. We still have a lot to learn and improve on as a team and individuals. However, this is a step in the right direction."
Fellow captain Joshua Engel pointed to the team's unity as a driving force behind their success.
"I am very proud in everything we have accomplished this season,” said Engel, who came to Quakes Academy via San Francisco Glens SC. “Win or lose, goals conceded or scored, we have stuck together and persevered. All the hard work and dedication we have put in at practice has shown in our results. Finishing first in the Pro Pathway Division for the first time in club history is a major achievement, but we know there is much more in store for us in the future."
With the division title secured, the group's attention now turns to an even bigger stage. The team will travel to Salt Lake City, Utah, on May 22 to compete for the MLS NEXT Cup, where they'll look to carry the form and identity that powered their historic regular season into a run at national glory.
