From Gap Year to Pro Contract: How International Soccer Academy Helped Creighton Braun Turn His Dream Into Reality
19-Year-Old American Midfielder Signs with European Club FC DAC 1904
For many young soccer players, the dream of signing a professional contract in Europe can seem out of reach. But for Creighton Braun, a Southern California native and former West Coast FC standout, that dream has become a reality.
Braun, who joined the International Soccer Academy’s gap year program in Mallorca, Spain, has officially signed his first professional contract with FC DAC 1904 Dunajská Streda. The club is a top-tier club in Slovakia’s Super Liga and is vying for a spot in the UEFA Champions League.
His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, elite training, and the right opportunities—proving that talented American players can leap into professional soccer in Europe. 
From California to Spain: A Bold Step Toward a Pro Career
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted collegiate soccer, Braun knew he couldn’t afford to wait. As a former DI player at Creighton University, he had already built a strong foundation but needed consistent, high-level training to stay on track.
That’s when he decided to leave the U.S. and train at the International Soccer Academy in Mallorca. There, he competed against top European talent under UEFA A and Pro Licensed coaches.
“I just wanted to play soccer, and in California, that wasn’t possible then,” Braun explained. “The International Soccer Academy allowed me to continue developing and gain exposure to European clubs.”
Three weeks into the Academy’s fall session, Braun’s talent caught the eye of professional scouts, and International Soccer Academy secured him a trial at FC DAC 1904—a golden opportunity for an American player looking to break into the European game.
From Trial to Contract: Seizing the Opportunity
Braun had been sending emails, making calls, and searching for a trial in Europe for years. When the opportunity finally arrived, he knew this was his moment to shine.
“I was amazed. I had reached out many times before, and now I had my shot,” Braun said. “I told myself: now is my chance.”
At FC DAC 1904, Braun impressed head coach Bernd Storck, who was known for developing young talent into professional players. The club quickly recognized his potential, work ethic, and technical ability, leading to an official contract offer.
“From the first day, I saw that Creighton Braun had something special,” said Coach Holger Gehrke, a former goalkeeper and coach for Schalke 04 and the Hungarian National Team. “I knew that if he found the right environment, he would develop into a professional player in Europe.”
With support from International Soccer Academy, Braun also earned a trial at Bundesliga club Schalke 04, further cementing his status as a player to watch in the European market.
The Impact of International Soccer Academy’s Training Pathway
International Soccer Academy has become a game-changer for American players seeking pathways to professional soccer in Europe. Co-Founder Eddie Loewen, a former pro with deep connections in the European soccer world, saw Braun’s potential early on.
“Creighton is a versatile player who has what it takes to make it in the professional game,” said Loewen. “With the right development, I am confident we’ll see him playing for a top European club in the future.”
Paul Caligiuri, USMNT legend and the player who helped send the U.S. to the 1990 FIFA World Cup, also praised Braun’s breakthrough:
“This player went from being relatively unknown to being on the U.S. radar overnight,” said Caligiuri. “This wouldn’t have happened without International Soccer Academy, which provides players with elite training and real opportunities to be seen by European clubs.”
A Journey of Hard Work, Sacrifice, and Dedication
Braun’s path to professional soccer wasn’t always smooth. Like many young players, he faced setbacks and challenges along the way.
“I wasn’t always the star player on my team,” Braun admitted. “When I had to switch teams because of birth-year changes, I went from being a key player to sitting on the bench. But I worked through it. I trained for hours and stayed focused on my goal.”
His former youth club coaches have taken notice of his achievement.
“We are incredibly proud of Creighton,” said Mike Higgins, General Manager of West Coast FC. “Our goal is to prepare players for these kinds of opportunities; this is a great example of that coming true.”
Neil Armour, Technical Director at West Coast FC, echoed similar sentiments:
“I always told people that if Creighton went to Europe, he wouldn’t return. He’s that dedicated,” Armour said. “He’s a focused player who takes constructive criticism and uses it to improve. That’s why he’s here today.”
What’s Next for Creighton Braun?
The real journey begins now that Braun has signed his first pro contract. His goal? To continue developing at FC DAC 1904, earn a starting spot, and eventually play in the UEFA Champions League.
Braun said. “I’m focused on making an impact at my new club and growing as a player, every day.”
