NY Empire FC ISX Tryouts Kick Off With Energy, Talent, and a Path to the World Stage

NY Empire FC
Sep 3
2 min read

The journey to Spain has officially begun. On Tuesday, NY Empire FC launched the first day of its ISX Tryouts, a year-long program designed to build elite-level teams that will train together and then represent New York on the international stage at the 2026 Donosti Cup—the largest youth soccer tournament in the world.

Three Sessions. One Goal: Excellence.

Day 1 featured three high-energy sessions that showcased the depth of talent across New York:

Session 1: Boys 2017/2016
Session 2: Boys 2015/2014
Session 3: Boys 2011/2010

From the youngest players showing raw passion to the older groups displaying advanced technique and tactical understanding, the level of play impressed everyone on the field.

Top Coaches, Top Opportunities

Players had the rare opportunity to perform in front of an exceptional group of coaches:

Nick Bigilin (Long Island University)
Keith Ginsberg (Suffolk Community College)
Alec Jacobs (East Meadow ECNL)
Andy Figueroa (Albertson Soccer Club)
Kristina Gambino (Ultimate Soccer Training)
Max Ferro (Director of Coaching, NY Empire FC & Head Coach – Men’s Team)

This elite coaching staff brought knowledge, experience, and inspiration—setting the tone for what promises to be an incredible year of development.

Why This Tryout Matters

This isn’t just another tryout. It’s the gateway to international soccer, a chance to train in a professional environment, sharpen skills against the best in the region, and ultimately wear the NY Empire FC badge on the global stage. Competing at the Donosti Cup in Spain, alongside youth teams from all over the world, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that starts right here in New York.

Don’t Miss Your Chance

Day 1 proved that New York is bursting with soccer talent—and there’s still time to be part of it. If you dream big, want to test yourself against the best, and have the passion to represent your city and country abroad, the upcoming tryouts are your opportunity. Our second set of tryouts for these age groups are on September 14th at Adelphi University in Garden City.