Brazos Valley Cavalry FC kicks off its second year of existence this summer, serving as a bridge between the Academy system and professional ranks of the USL and MLS.
Cavalry FC is the Professional Development League (PDL) affiliate of the Houston Dynamo, serving as an amateur U-23 side coached by Dynamo Academy director James Clarkson. The summer league allows college players to continue their development without forfeiting NCAA eligibility.
Brazos Valley allows Dynamo Academy products to continue with the organization following the U-19 level as they aim to make the jump to Rio Grande Valley FC and the Dynamo first team. On this year’s squad alone, 24 of the players are Dynamo Academy alums. Three players on this year’s squad came from May’s open tryouts at Dynamo Trials: Carlos Viveros, Ronaldo Rodriguez, and Gregorio Romero.
The team is an integral part to the development of homegrown talent. Dynamo first team midfielder Memo Rodriguez spent time with the team last season to stay game-sharp before appearing in nine MLS matches, and Dynamo Academy standout Marcelo Palomino took the step up to the PDL between Development Academy seasons last summer. Dynamo Academy alum Zach Jackson is currently training with RGV FC after a summer with Brazos Valley, and forward Aldo Quintanilla – who was found through Dynamo Trials and played with the previous iteration of the Dynamo’s U-23 team – currently leads the Toros in goals scored.
Cavalry FC began their season on Saturday with a friendly against USA ISL Oilers FC, a semi-pro team from the Pearland area, winning 11-0. Dynamo Academy product Gianluca Natera scored four goals in the rout. Brazos Valley kicks off their 14-game PDL regular season tonight against Houston FC in Bryan.
