From the Academy to Pro | Feat. Jacob Bartlett and Ian James | Ep. 14

What does it take to go from the Sporting KC Academy to becoming a professional soccer player?

On this episode of Off The Pitch, Sporting Kansas City Homegrowns Ian James and Jacob Bartlett join Blake and Marika to talk about their journeys through the Sporting KC Academy, the Homegrown system and the club’s pro player pathway.

Ian shares the story of moving from Minnesota to Kansas City with his dad to pursue an opportunity with the Sporting KC Academy, eventually earning his chance at the professional level. Jacob takes us through a different path — growing up in Overland Park, playing locally with Sporting Blue Valley, making sacrifices to join the Academy and chasing the dream of one day representing his hometown club.

The two also open up about balancing soccer, school, family and friendships while pursuing a professional career, plus what life is like away from the pitch. From fishing and Rocket League to Chiefs games and team dinners, Ian and Jacob share stories about their friendship and the relationships that bring the Sporting KC locker room together.

Plus, Blake and Marika talk about the Kansas City soccer community and rank some of their favorite fall activities around KC.

From the Sporting KC Academy to the first team, this episode gives fans an inside look at the development, sacrifices and relationships behind Sporting Kansas City’s next generation of Homegrown talent.

Off The Pitch brings you closer to Sporting Kansas City with conversations featuring players, staff and members of the Kansas City community — sharing the stories that go beyond the 90 minutes.

For all team news, tickets, and more: sportingkc.com

Watch on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV: apple.co/SportingKC
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