IGNITE Football Academy is proud to recognize Jay Lee, a Class of 2026 student-athlete from St. Paul American School Hanoi, whose journey reflects the commitment, versatility, and character that define the IGNITE family.

Jay has built an exceptional athletic and academic legacy during his time at SPASH. A four-year varsity soccer starter, Jay consistently demonstrated leadership, work ethic, and high-level performance on the pitch. His competitive drive extended beyond soccer, where he also became a three-year varsity basketball starter, showcasing his athletic versatility and competitive mindset across multiple sports.

Beyond athletics, Jay distinguished himself as a member of the SPASH band, helping the program earn international recognition and awards on a global stage. His impact on the school community was further cemented when he was inducted into the SPASH Hall of Fame, an honor that speaks to his influence, dedication, and lasting legacy.

Jay has been part of IGNITE since the very beginning, joining in the summer of 2024 and fully embracing the developmental process. Throughout his journey, he attended collegiate ID camps at Lindenwood University, Saint Louis University, and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, continuously challenging himself against top competition and gaining exposure at the collegiate level.

It was at the SIUE ID Camp where coaches from McKendree University recognized Jay’s ability, competitiveness, and potential. Shortly after, McKendree offered Jay an opportunity to join their men’s soccer program, where he will continue his academic and athletic career beginning in Fall 2026.

Jay’s story is a testament to what can happen when talent meets consistency, preparation, and opportunity. Everyone at IGNITE is incredibly proud of his journey and excited to watch what he accomplishes at the next level.

IGNITE Football Academy is proud to highlight Kwonjin Woo, a Class of 2026 student-athlete from Reigate Grammar School Vietnam, whose talent, consistency, and competitive mentality have made him one of the most exciting prospects in his class.

Kwonjin joined IGNITE in the summer of 2025 and immediately made an impression. From his first collegiate exposure opportunity at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, it was clear that he possessed the technical quality, vision, and composure needed to compete at the next level. His performances quickly drew attention from multiple collegiate programs, leading to several scholarship opportunities.

After carefully evaluating his options, Kwonjin made the decision to continue his academic and athletic career at Emory & Henry University, committing shortly after receiving his offer.

At Reigate Grammar School Vietnam, Kwonjin played a major role in building one of the top school programs in the region. He helped lead RGSV to back-to-back VISA championships while also guiding the program to an undefeated HAC campaign during the 2026 season, an accomplishment that reflects both his leadership and winning mentality.

Known for his elite field vision, high soccer IQ, and a lethal right foot, Kwonjin consistently creates opportunities, controls the tempo of the game, and delivers in key moments. His ability to impact matches in multiple ways has positioned him for continued success at the university level.

Everyone at IGNITE is incredibly proud of Kwonjin’s journey and excited to watch him take the next step at Emory & Henry.

Since joining IGNITE in the summer of 2025, Doan Minh Hieu Le has consistently embodied what it means to be a true student-athlete and teammate. A three-year starter at St. Paul American School Hanoi, Hieu has built a reputation as one of the most versatile and dependable players in his class. His ability to seamlessly contribute in multiple positions makes him an invaluable asset, but what truly sets him apart is his selfless, team-first mentality.

Hieu now becomes the third member of IGNITE’s 2025 cohort, following their experience at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, to earn the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level.

Off the pitch, Hieu’s quiet and humble demeanor can easily fool you. But once he steps onto the field, his presence is undeniable. He is an exceptional communicator, a player who organizes, leads, and elevates those around him. Combined with his elite soccer IQ, tactical awareness, and understanding of the game, Hieu consistently separates himself from others.

His journey is a reflection of his commitment, character, and relentless pursuit of growth, and IGNITE is proud to have been part of his pathway to the next level.

IGNITE FOOTBALL ACADEMY is proud to highlight Kaua Matte Machado. His journey to collegiate soccer is a testament to the opportunities that can come from hard work, strong relationships, and a commitment to pursuing your goals.

A Brazilian student-athlete who spent multiple years living and playing soccer in Vietnam, Kaua graduated from QSI International School of Haiphong in May 2026 before joining IGNITE Football Academy. Although Coach Pop did not have the opportunity to work directly with Kaua during his time at QSI, he came highly recommended by the school’s administration, and it didn’t take long for Kaua to become a valued member of the IGNITE family.

On the pitch, Kaua separates himself through his exceptional vision and tactical understanding of the game. His ability to read situations, recognize opportunities, and make intelligent decisions makes him a special player with tremendous potential. His development and dedication helped him earn two different scholarship offers before ultimately deciding to continue his academic and soccer career at Illinois College in Jacksonville, Illinois.

While his abilities on the field are impressive, Kaua’s character may be his greatest strength. He is one of the kindest young men in the entire IGNITE family, bringing a positive attitude, genuine humility, and the type of personality that makes everyone around him better. His impact extends well beyond the soccer pitch, and we are proud to have played a part in his journey.

Kaua represents what IGNITE is all about: helping international student-athletes turn their ambitions into opportunities while growing as both players and people.