Phoenix Rising FC has signed midfielder David Landis to a USL Academy Contract, pending league and federation approval, the club announced today.
USL Academy Contracts allow players to train and compete against professional players while retaining their college eligibility.
“David has shown since day one that he has the ability to adapt, develop and thrive with the first team,” said Rising Head Coach Juan Guerra. “I am very happy to keep adding academy players to our first team. This shows the level of commitment we have with the academy and the bridge we have been building.”
Landis, 17, spent his formative years at SC del Sol after joining the Phoenix-based youth club in 2015. He advanced through the ranks to SC del Sol’s top level, the MLS Next Academy team, in 2020. Landis began training with the Phoenix Rising pro team this August.
“We are delighted David is being offered a [USL Academy Contract],” said SC del Sol MLS NEXT Technical Director, Alan Lamb. “He has been with SC del Sol since he was eight years old. We were fortunate to work with him and watch him develop both as a player and person over the last decade. David is a technically gifted player with an outstanding left foot. He consistently looks to drive the ball forward and create goal scoring opportunities. We wish him the best of luck!
“Training with Phoenix Rising has been amazing,” said Landis. “It’s a whole other level of quality and speed. It has elevated my game physically and technically. Training with professional players has humbled me. I have a lot of work to do. I am just so grateful for this opportunity excited for what is to come.”
Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC signs midfielder David Landis to USL Academy Contract
Name: David Landis
POS: Midfielder
DOB: 03/03/2006 (17)
Hometown: Peoria, Arizona
Place of Birth: Glendale, Arizona
Height: 5-8
Weight: 145lbs
