Our Story
Founded in 2015 by Costel Cătălin Șerban, iProSkills Academy was born from a clear vision: to create an environment where young players could develop like professionals—through quality coaching, consistent contact time, and a true passion for the game.
Since its founding, iProSkills has helped shape players who went on to compete at the highest levels of world football—including Martin and Freddy Krüg, products of our academy who represented their country at the World Cup and now play in La Liga for Levante UD.
From humble beginnings in Chicago, iProSkills has grown into one of the region’s most respected player development programs—trusted by parents, admired by coaches, and loved by the players who call it home.
Soccer players are
made not born.
What Makes Us Unique
1. High Contact Time
At iProSkills, we believe that real progress happens on the field—not on the sidelines. Every player receives more meaningful training hours than at traditional clubs. Even our youngest athletes train at least 6 hours per week, with advanced players reaching 10 hours weekly.
During the winter season, players enrolled in multiple programs benefit from 9 hours per week, maintaining their growth through the off-season.
And when summer arrives, our renowned 10-week Summer Program delivers an incredible 300 hours of training—an immersive experience that transforms potential into performance.
Because when players spend more time on the ball, the game slows down, confidence rises, and development accelerates.
2. High-Quality Coaching
One of the most important factors in developing talent is access to high-quality coaching from an early age. While other elements like good facilities can support growth, they are secondary to the impact of great coaching. A perfect soccer field won’t teach your child how to position themselves in relation to the ball, how to scan the field, when to press, or how to defend effectively. Facilities and technology can enhance learning—but only great coaches truly develop players.
Coaching is the heart of player development, especially during the formative years. Early access to knowledgeable, experienced coaches isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Talent needs guidance—and at iProSkills, that guidance comes from some of the best in the business.
Our staff includes UEFA and U.S. Soccer–licensed coaches with deep roots in elite European academies. Leading the program is our Director of Player Development, a former Chelsea FCAcademy Coach & Scout. With Chelsea FC widely recognised as one of the top academies in the world, his insight and leadership help set iProSkills apart.
3. Player-First Philosophy
We place the player at the center of everything we do. At iProSkills, we prioritize individual development over short-term results. Our focus isn’t on winning games—it’s on developing players who think, create, and play with confidence.
Our coaches encourage players to express themselves, take risks, and learn through experience—even if it means making mistakes.
We rotate players across positions to deepen their understanding of the game, and we track their growth through personalized Individual Development Plans (IDPs).
As World Cup–winning coach Lionel Scaloni once said:
“Imagine if Messi, when he was eight years old, had been told all the time, ‘Pass it!’ Today,
we wouldn’t have him.”
Every decision at iProSkills begins with one question: What’s best for the player’s long-term development?
4. Exposure to World-Class Competition
To grow, players must be challenged.
At iProSkills Soccer Academy, we recognize that challenging, high-level competition is essential for player development. Our academy is committed to providing players with opportunities to compete in elite tournaments that simulate the intensity and demands of professional football. These events play a vital role in a young player’s journey, helping to shape a winning mentality from an early age.
Over the years, iProSkills Academy has matched up against some of the most respected youth academies in the world, including La Masia (FC Barcelona), Manchester City, and Dinamo Zagreb. These experiences offer our players valuable exposure to a variety of playing styles and tactical systems, helping to enhance their adaptability, decision-making, and tactical awareness.
By participating in these competitive settings, players build the resilience, focus, and confidence necessary to thrive under pressure. At iProSkills Academy, we are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of football talent, preparing them not only for success on the pitch but for the life skills they will carry with them beyond the game.
Our Mission
At iProSkills Academy, our mission is to develop better people—not just better players. We aim to instill in every child a love for the game, respect for others, and the mindset to face challenges with courage and determination.
By combining professional coaching, individualized development, and world-class experiences, we prepare our players not only for success in soccer—but for success in life.
Highlights
Select a photo to read the full story.
Testimonials
I would say my experience at iProSkills Academy has taught me the fundamentals of fútbol and then shown me the higher aspects of the game. For me personally, iProSkills has been a family that has supported me in more than just in futbol but also in my own life. The coaching staff and players put in a tremendous effort to help each individual player to reach the max of their capabilities and then helped them become more than that. Thank you iProSkills for allowing me to be where I am today.
–
iProSkills Summer Soccer Camp is a phenomenal camp for the serious soccer player. Coach Costel and his staff are excellent coaches who are passionate about soccer and helping their players to be the best they can be. This camp is a great way to give your child the skills he or she needs to be successful both on the field and off. Coach Costel pushes players to their maximum potential and helps them to realize the superstar that is inside of them. If your son or daughter loves soccer, this is the camp for them!
Kristy Morrow – mom of Miles ( 9 years old)
An amazing program with incredible coaches. The training is focused on improving individual skills and making every player the best he or she can be. The organization feels like a family as well.
Adam Shane
iPro skills is where confidence and skill meet. My daughter has quickly gained the confidence to control the ball and through their many available skill classes has learned how to control the ball and play the game better. The coaching is very attentive, dedicated, and kind. You can feel the positive energy they put into coaching the kids. If you want great professional coaching, motivational practices, and overall a great soccer experience, this is the place to be!
Richard Dsg Camacho
Coach Costel is a wonderful coach and goes out of his way to teach his students on and off the field. Last year Coach Costel was the main attraction at my son’s birthday party, where he provided an amazing experience for not only 25 children, but also my son who felt incredibly special. Coach Costel made it so easy for me by bringing all the gear necessary for the kids to be entertained for over two hours. Regardless if the kids had soccer experience, all the children learned skills, enjoyed a scrimmage game and had a blast. Thank you Coach Costel!
Lisa Brazelton, CEO, TCP Training Centers Inc.
Best European style of coaching in Chicago! (watch a couple of iProSkills videos and you will quickly understand what I mean) Anyways, Coach Catalin is very professional, friendly, and family-oriented…The practices are tough but well balanced. Between skills, speed, endurance, agility, and discipline the kids get it all at iProSkills Academy. I only wish that all the programs in the US could provide such high-quality soccer training.
Daniel Panol
This soccer academy is not only about the sport – It’s a community dedicated to its kids and families.
Karla Tennies Koziura
[kk-star-ratings]
