Sacramento Republic FC sign 13-year-old Da’vian Kimbrough to contract
Aug 9, 2023, 9:08 AM
Da’vian Kimbrough, 13, with his Sacramento Republic FC jersey. (photo courtesy of Sacramento Republic FC)
(photo courtesy of Sacramento Republic FC)
Sacramento Republic FC announced they’ve signed 13-year-old forward Da’vian Kimbrough to a contract, making him the youngest athlete in American professional team sports.
Kimbrough, who joined the team’s youth academy in 2021, was 13 years, 5 months, 13 days when the deal was announced Tuesday.
“A young player’s path is never the same as the person seated next to them,” Republic coach Mark Briggs said in the team’s press release. “Da’vian has shown tremendous focus, commitment and dedication, as well as a willingness to embrace the challenging road ahead of him. Over the last two years he has demonstrated his tremendous potential, and our goal is to continue to support and help him grow as a player and person.”
Welcome to the first team, Da'vian 💪 pic.twitter.com/iAePxtpeSO
— Republic FC (@SacRepublicFC) August 8, 2023
Kimbrough’s schedule will be modified, in consultation with his family, to accommodate his studies, as well as training.
“With each player that comes through our academy, our approach is unique and tailored to help the individual find their best journey,” Academy Director Eder Quintanilla said in the team’s press release. “Da’vian is a special player who has thrived in difficult and challenging environments. We’re excited to be a part of the next step in his development, and to continue to support his professional dream.”
After playing for North Bay Elite Futbol Club in Solano County and Woodland Soccer Club of Yolo County, Kimbrough scored 27 goals in 31 matches for the Republic’s under-13 team in 2021, when he was 11.
He played for the under-14 team last year, also joining the under-15 team for some matches. Kimbrough scored six goals this year as the New York Red Bulls Academy team won the Bassevelde Cup for under-13 teams in Belgium.
Kimbrough, born Feb. 18, 2010, is eligible to debut on Saturday against the Birmingham Legion. Sac Republic’s next home game is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 26, in the stadium where everything began, Hughes Stadium at Sacramento City College.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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