Ocala, FL – Sports at WEC will work with MLS pro forward Erik Hurtado to launch elite soccer player development programs at World Equestrian Center this summer. With more than a decade of professional experience and MLS appearances for clubs like the Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Sporting Kansas City and D.C. United, Hurtado brings top expertise and high-level training to players in the Greater Ocala area. In July and August, Hurtado will lead two intensive youth player development training camps, along with ongoing private training sessions for players of all ages later this summer.
The two-day camps will be offered July 12-13 (indoor) and August 9-10 (outdoor) from 9am to 1pm for ages 9-13 and 3pm to 7pm for ages 14-17. Sessions will focus on developmental exercises designed to improve speed and agility, dribbling and ball control, shooting, stamina and fitness. Players will also work on communication and spatial awareness in 1v1 and 2v2 attacking and defending drills and participate in a 5v5 scrimmage tournament.
Drawing on his professional background, Hurtado designs camps that replicate the intensity and structure of a pro training environment, constantly adapting drills and challenges to meet the needs of each individual player. Camps are open to qualified players ages 9-17 with at least one year of competitive club experience. Registration is now available online at sportsatwec.com.
In addition to player development camps, Hurtado will offer private training sessions for players of all ages later this summer. Hourly sessions will be tailored to each athlete’s developmental goals, mentality, fitness level and overall technical skills.
“We are thrilled to bring Erik’s talent to Sports at WEC,” said World Equestrian Center Director of Sports, Wyatt Stephens. “Access to his experience and professionalism is an incredible opportunity for young athletes in Ocala. Our mission at Sports at WEC is to provide top-quality programs and training, and working with Erik allows us to deliver on that promise.”
About Erik Hurtado
A standout at D1 Santa Clara University, Hurtado was a four-time team MVP, 2012 Conference Player of the Year, and earned All-American honors before being selected fifth overall in the 2013 MLS Draft by Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
Throughout an 11-season MLS career, Hurtado made over 170 appearances with clubs including Vancouver, Sporting Kansas City, CF Montreal, Columbus Crew and D.C. United. He was a three-time recipient of the ‘Goal of the Year’ award and led the league in goals-per-minute in 2020.
Hurtado continues his passion for soccer and fitness through youth development, sharing his elite knowledge of the sport and career experience with the local soccer community.