Families in Clermont County have an opportunity to make a lifelong impact on young athletes this summer. The FCC Academy Residency Program is seeking host families to support upcoming soccer players from around the world. This opportunity promotes one of the region’s fastest-growing professional sports movements while solidifying the area's role as an essential partner in the club’s success.
FC Cincinnati has expanded its search for host families to support players in the club’s Academy Residency Program. The program places talented teenage soccer players with local families while they train and compete in the club’s elite youth development system. The academy recruits players from across the United States and internationally.
Dan and Shannon Launderville from Milford have taken part in the program since the 2024 season. Their son, Chris, who is also a club soccer player, met Chance and David through the program. The three bonded over their shared love of the sport and became “like family,” according to Shannon.
According to the Academy, FCC will pay every host family $650 a month for each player they host. In return, families provide a private bedroom, three nutritious meals each day, internet access, laundry facilities, and a supportive home environment. Club staff will provide ongoing assistance throughout the season.
For Clermont County families, the program also offers the opportunity to mentor a motivated teenager and introduce them to the broader community.
Players in the residency program range in age from 14 to 18. They attend local schools or complete online coursework while participating in FC Cincinnati’s academy schedule, which typically runs from early August. The program encourages players to meet friends and share cultural experiences.
Manager Academy Player Care coordinator Meghan Viens told Connect Clermont the program is always looking for help. “We bring in the most number of players who need host families in August, but we are always on the lookout for families to join us as we bring players all throughout the year.”
The program currently has openings for 7-8 players. Host families can apply to house more than one player.
Source: FC Cincinnati
The club also places a strong emphasis on safety. Every prospective host family must complete a screening process that includes background checks, home inspections, and in-person interviews before welcoming a player into their home. FC Cincinnati also provides educational resources and maintains regular communication with host families throughout the residency experience.
The program has become an important part of FC Cincinnati’s long-term player development strategy. Academy leaders say recruiting nationally strengthens competition within the program while creating a professional environment that prepares players for higher levels of the game.
Several former residency players have already advanced through the club’s development pathway and signed professional contracts with FC Cincinnati, like homegrown forward Gerardo 'Dado' Valenzuela.
The relationships frequently continue long after a player leaves the academy. Former host families and players often remain in contact as players move into college soccer or professional careers, creating lasting friendships that begin around the family dinner table.
Source: @fccincyacademy Instagram
For residents who enjoy youth sports or cultural exchange, the residency program offers a unique way to contribute locally while supporting the development of future professional athletes.
Interested families can learn more about eligibility and the application process through the program’s website. FCC encourages prospective hosts to contact Meghan Viens directly with specific questions.
As FC Cincinnati continues to invest in developing the next generation of talent, Clermont County families have an opportunity to play their role.
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