From South Africa to France: Ian Foster’s Journey Across Continents with Grove

U12 Ian Foster controlling the ball in the U12 Rygate Cup Final.

Ian Foster is the longest-tenured Grove player on the U19 Grove United International Tour to France, bringing with him a deep-rooted legacy within Grove Soccer. His journey began at age 11 with the U12 GSA South Africa team, where he made an immediate impact by helping the squad lift the Rygate League Knockout trophy—his first piece of silverware. Now, he joins the U19 squad on a 12-day international tour, facing top European competition while immersing himself in the culture and experience of French football.

Ian lifting the U12 Rygate Cup Trophy in South Africa

At the South African Academy, Ian trained under the guidance of current Academy Director, Coach Taugheed Musson. The two worked closely through team sessions, individual training, and match analysis—laying the foundation for Ian’s development and preparing him for his transition to the European game in Portugal.

Ian Foster and Academy Director, Coach Taugheed, at the Cape Town Academy

Coach Taugheed and Ian Foster at Ian's Send off to Portugal.

Following his successful start with GSA South Africa, Ian’s talent earned him a place at Louletano DC, a Portuguese club based in Faro. There, he spent three formative years honing his technical and tactical understanding of the European game—pushing himself outside his comfort zone, overcoming language barriers, and rising to the mental and technical demands of European football.

Ian in Louletano Uniform in Portugal

Ian in training at Louletano DC in Portugal.

Upon returning to the United States, Ian joined Grove United’s U19 squad, competing in elite tournaments and college showcases such as the USL Academy Cup and NCFC Showcase. Now, as he represents Grove United on this prestigious international tour—facing top French U20 and semi-pro sides, including Ligue 2’s Red Star FC—he completes the full arc of his Academy journey, from U12 to U19.

U19 team picture before Red Star FC U20 Match.

“Ian is a shining example of a player who has progressed through the full journey of our Academy program. He’s experienced every layer of our international development environments—from training in the heat of Paarl, to lifting the U12 trophy in Cape Town with our now Academy Director, Coach Taugheed Musson, to battling the rigors of Portuguese football, and finally stepping up with the U19 squad in the U.S. and France. Ian has overcome challenges at every phase, showing grit and determination that define him as both a player and an individual. He’s shown what it means to step outside your comfort zone in pursuit of your ambitions—and that’s the mindset we aim to instill in all Grove players,” said Club President Justin Grove.

Coach Grove and Ian Foster on the Streets of Paris on the International Tour.

With this tour, Ian now enters the next chapter of his career, joining the U20/Grove Pro Group Program with the opportunity to join the group for league and tournament events. His Grove story is one of dedication, growth, and grit—an inspiration for young players across every country in the Grove system.

Former Red Star FC player Samy Arar-Micouraud joins Grove United

Samy  Arar-Micouraud at Red Star Training Stadium

Former Red Star FC player Samy Arar-Micouraud has officially joined Grove United. His addition brings a wealth of European football experience and a decorated resume to the club. This move also strengthens the connection between Red Star FC and Grove United, signaling an exciting new chapter for both clubs.

Samy started his soccer career at the Red Star FC pre-academy, later joining the Red Star FC Academy. Throughout this time, Samy developed through the pro team’s academy player pathway and competed in several national and international tournaments. 

Samy Arar-Micouraud garnered attention through the Grove United International Pro and College Combine, an experience he speaks of with great enthusiasm. Reflecting on the event, he shared, “The showcase was very interesting for European players because it provides the opportunity to access universities and professional clubs. I was very surprised at the levels I saw during the showcase. As a French player who played at a professional club like Red Star FC, where I absorbed the entire culture of French football, I was impressed to see several players here who are now part of the professional world.”

This endorsement underscores the combine’s growing reputation as a platform for bridging international football talent and opportunities.

Samy  Arar-Micouraud vs PSG Academy at PSG Centre De Formation in Paris

Samy Arar-Micouraud has joined the Grove United NPSL 1st team as a center midfielder and is set to play an integral role in building a championship-contending squad. Grove United President Justin Grove expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Samy Arar-Micouraud is an intelligent and dynamic midfielder with the exceptional ability to dictate the flow of the game. His extensive European experience will be a significant asset to the team, introducing a heightened level of professionalism and a deeper understanding of the game to the group. I expect Samy’s presence to elevate both the team’s performance and its competitive edge.”

Samy’s addition to the NPSL squad marks a key step in Grove United’s quest for success this season.

Samy has expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm following his arrival at the club, stating, “A big thank you to Grove United, who welcomed me with open arms. I am very happy to have participated in this adventure with Grove United and to have had the opportunity to play alongside American players. A special thank you to coach Justin Grove for his trust, hospitality, and professionalism at such an intense football level.”

Red Star FC is a professional French club competing in Ligue 2. The club is one of the oldest in France and has produced professional players at all levels of European football. Samy moving to Grove United has strengthened the connection between the two clubs, allowing for player movements between the clubs for ID and soccer development opportunities. “I am excited to continue strengthening our connection with Red Star FC, providing valuable opportunities for players from both clubs to experience diverse football environments, broaden their cultural awareness, and showcase their talents on an international stage,” says Grove.

In 2023, Grove United standouts Lucas Spiegel and Onesime Muepu traveled to Paris, France, for a trial with Red Star FC. This remarkable opportunity allowed Spiegel and Muepu to experience the game at a higher level, gaining valuable insight and exposure in a professional European environment while showcasing their talents on an international stage. The trial also served as a cornerstone in reinforcing the bond between the two clubs, setting the stage for future collaboration in player identification, development, and movement opportunities. 

International Pro & College Combine Recap!

Day #1 of the International Pro & College Combine

The International Pro & College Combine was held on January 10-12. 160 players were in attendance, taking advantage of the skill-elevating resources provided. 8 pro clubs and 5 colleges were present, which was significant for aspiring players seeking pro-development and exposure to larger markets. 

The combine featured advanced technical sessions, possession and tactical exercises, and matches granting players a platform to showcase their ability in varied environments. 

A standout feature of the event was the panel sessions, where coaches engaged directly with players and parents. Discussions centered on the demands of next-level competition, what coaches look for in aspiring players, and the qualities required to succeed in both collegiate and professional soccer.

Arsenal FC Academy's Josh Pugh, working with players

Notable contributors included Gulf United FC’s Junior Mutumene, Arsenal FC Academy’s Josh Push, and USL Championship team Miami FC’s Marcello Alves. These esteemed coaches offered professional training and invaluable insights into the pathways to achieving success at the highest levels of the sport through both on-field sessions and informative panels.

College coaches representing Virginia Commonwealth University, Hampden-Sydney College, and several other universities provided players with detailed information about recruitment and what is expected concerning athletics and academics for players planning to obtain a roster spot at the collegiate level. 

Professional Clubs in attendance (8):

Gulf United FC - Dubai 1st Division

• Coach: Junior Mutumene

Red Star FC - Ligue 2

• Coach: Vincent Doukantie

Arsenal FC Academy - England 

• Coach: Josh Pugh

Miami FC - USL Championship

• Coach: Marcello Alves 

Georgia FC - NISA

• Coach: Joao Garcia 

Parma Calcio 1913 - Italian 2nd Division Serie B

• Coach: Francesca Lanotte

Toluca FC - Mexico 1st Division / Volta Redonda FC - Brazil 2nd Division

• Coach: Rodrigo Cruz

Colleges in Attendance (5):

VCU Mens NCAA Division I

Virginia State Mens & Womens NCAA Division II

Hampden-Sydney College Mens NCAA Division III

North Carolina Wesleyan University Mens NCAA Division III

Randolph-Macon College Womens NCAA Division III

Despite challenging weather conditions, the players demonstrated commitment to performing at a high level. The elite coaching staff showed great adaptability, delivering sessions that kept players engaged, motivated, and continuously learning throughout.

The next International Combine will take place from July 28–31, offering players another exceptional opportunity to immerse themselves in a development environment that mirrors the professional level. This event also provides a platform for players to showcase their talents in front of both college and professional coaches.

Don’t miss your chance to elevate your game and take your skills to the next level!

Refer to our social media pages for additional highlights of the International Pro & College Combine!