The Hartford Athletic Player Development Academy offers developmental and competitive opportunities for boys and girls throughout Connecticut under its new motto, “Soccer for all.” The academy provides players from within the region a positive player-centered learning environment, giving each player the opportunity to develop their full potential and maximize their ability. Hartford Athletic’s Player Development Academy is not just about soccer; it’s about fostering passion, skill, and a love for the game — helping every player rise to their fullest potential. Whether you’re looking to develop your skills in a fun environment or on a path to collegiate and professional soccer, the Hartford Athletic Player Development Academy has a pathway for everyone.
For more information on our Boys and Girls Academy please follow the links below:
Following over 20 years of coaching at the professional and international levels, Zambrano will be responsible for developing on-field programming for Hartford Athletic’s Academy teams and curriculums related to both boys and girls player development. Zambrano will also oversee all programs including Academy tryouts, clinics, college showcases, training sessions and provide connectivity and a pathway to Hartford Athletic’s professional team working closely with Head Coach and GM, Brendan Burke.
“I am honored to join Hartford Athletic and contribute to the development of young players within the organization,” said Octavio Zambrano. “Connecticut is a state that is rich with talented young soccer players and I am excited to work alongside the coaching staff, players, and management team to build a robust player development program that will produce top level talent and future first team players.”
“Octavio is one of the best soccer minds in the history of American soccer, and I couldn’t think of a better person to be leading our player development initiatives,” said Hartford Athletic CEO Nick Sakiewicz. “His proven track record in identifying and nurturing young talent aligns seamlessly with the club’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and advancement in the sport.”
Zambrano’s extensive coaching career saw him make a profound impact on American soccer. He emerged as an MLS head coach in 1997, and guided two of the league’s most storied franchises, the LA Galaxy and New York Metro Stars/Red Bulls, to playoff appearances over the next five years. His 80-55-8 record ranks him 12th all-time in total wins among MLS coaches, giving him a .587 regular season winning percentage. Over the next two decades, Zambrano made coaching stints in Moldova, Hungary, Colombia, El Salvador, and his home country of Ecuador. In 2017, Zambrano was appointed as the Head
Coach of the Canadian National Team. He led Canada to the quarter-finals of the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Canada’s first appearance in the knock-out stage of the Gold Cup since 2009.
Zambrano holds a UEFA A diploma, a USSF A coaching license, and a CONMEBOL Pro license.
