Downey Unified Sports Academy
Elite Training. Strong Academics. Full Support
The Downey Unified Sports Academy is housed at Old River Elementary School and Stauffer Middle School and is a fully funded, elite athletic program designed to support the growth of motivated student-athletes, all during the school day.
This innovative program offers a public school alternative to expensive club systems, providing a high-caliber experience without financial barriers.
Why Choose the Downey Unified Sports Academy?
Elite-level athletic training built into the school day
Strong academic foundation with personalized support
Develops leadership, discipline, and character
Raises the level of local and regional competition
Tuition-free, equitable access for all Downey Unified students
Where Academic Excellence Meets Athletic Development
Led by experienced coach and educator Joe Pehanich and Dr. Arna Kilicarslan, the Academy is staffed by nationally and internationally certified instructors who specialize in developing the complete student-athlete.
Students participate in a 10-month Sports Academy program at Stauffer Middle School, training with their coaches three times each week. On training days, students meet their coaches at the gate between Old River and Stauffer before heading to practice. The training schedule features detailed training splits to ensure total athletic growth. Training includes:
- Upper and lower body strength work
- Core training for injury prevention
- Mobility and flexibility development
All training is fully assessment-based, allowing coaches to tailor instruction and monitor progress through personalized, data-driven feedback.
Comprehensive Athletic & Academic Support
In addition to high-level technical, tactical, physical, and mental development, student-athletes benefit from built-in support systems, including:
- Nutrition education
- Sports science and injury prevention resources
- Academic mentorship
- College and scholarship readiness planning
This structured approach provides the tools students need to excel on the field, in the classroom, and in life.
A Pathway to Future Success
Rooted in equity, excellence, and long-term success, our Academy is more than a sports program—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of student-athletes. Whether preparing for high school athletics, college scholarships, or even professional opportunities, students in the Sports Academy gain a well-rounded foundation that supports both their athletic and academic goals.
If your student is passionate about sports and driven to grow, the Downey Unified Sports Academy may be the perfect fit.
Sports Offered: Soccer
Stay tuned as more sports will be added soon.
Program Requirements
PHYSICAL FITNESS ASSESSMENT
2.5+ GPA
GREAT BEHAVIOR
GREAT ATTENDANCE
BECOME AN OLD RIVER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENT
Methodology
Deceleration mechanics
Acceleration mechanics
Change of direction and potentiation
Over-speed & counter-movement force production
Acceleration into force-counterrotation transitions
Counterrotation into rotational overspeed
Tracking & measurement
Every aspect of training is tracked and documented
Performance improvements supported by tangible, scientific data
Allows athletes and coaches to measure progress with precision
Ensures accountability and continuous optimization of results
Sign Up for Program Updates
The 2026-27 program is currently full, but we look forward to welcoming new students for the 2027-28 season. Tryouts will take place in early 2027. Complete the interest form below to receive updates about tryouts, informational meetings, program announcements, and other Sports Academy opportunities.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at sportsacademy@dusd.net