Athlete Spotlight: Rising Stars Forged at IMG Academy

At IMG Academy, potential isn’t just recognized—it’s cultivated. From elite facilities to college-style schedules and expert coaching, IMG Academy prepares student-athletes to thrive at the next level and beyond. The stories below showcase how this environment has shaped future stars across sports, laying the foundation for championship titles, draft day dreams, and legendary careers.

JJ McCarthy – Quarterback, Leader, National Champion

Long before JJ McCarthy lifted a national championship trophy with the University of Michigan, he was mastering leadership, decision-making, and discipline at IMG Academy. Arriving in Bradenton with a strong arm and fierce competitive edge, McCarthy embraced IMG Academy’s high-intensity training and demanding academic schedule. The structured routine—film sessions, weight training, position-specific drills, and mental performance coaching—mirrored that of a top-tier college program.

At IMG Academy, McCarthy was more than a quarterback. He was a captain, expected to lead by example and thrive under pressure. His composure in high-stakes moments and his ability to elevate his teammates became defining traits—qualities that led him to success on the biggest stages of college football and now, the NFL.

Evan Neal – A Towering Talent Refined

Evan Neal’s journey to becoming a first-round NFL Draft pick began with size and raw potential—but it was IMG Academy’s football program that helped turn him into one of the most polished and dominant offensive linemen in recent memory. Under the guidance of NFL-experienced coaches, Neal developed the footwork, flexibility, and technical precision that would earn him a starting role at Alabama as a true freshman.

The college-style environment at IMG Academy demanded accountability—from early weight room sessions to film review and rigorous academics. Neal embraced the grind, transforming his body and refining his mechanics. That preparation led to a standout college career and a top-10 NFL Draft selection.

Greg Newsome II – A Cornerback Built for the Pros

Greg Newsome II quickly distinguished himself at IMG Academy with his instincts, agility, and high football IQ. Competing against some of the nation’s best receivers daily, Newsome fine-tuned his footwork, learned to read offenses, and gained confidence in one-on-one coverage.

What set Newsome apart was his commitment to detail. He immersed himself in film study, leveraged IMG Academy’s strength and speed training, and matured as both a player and a student. After excelling at Northwestern, Newsome’s polished game and professional approach made him a first-round NFL Draft pick—proof of IMG Academy’s ability to develop pro-ready talent.

Maria Sharapova – Legacy Built on Foundation

Before she became a global tennis icon and five-time Grand Slam champion, Maria Sharapova was a young prodigy training relentlessly at IMG Academy. She arrived in Bradenton at age 7, drawn by the promise of world-class coaching and competition. What followed was a transformation—not just of her game, but of her mindset.

At IMG Academy, Sharapova learned the value of focus, routine, and professionalism. She trained alongside elite peers, studied under championship-winning coaches, and internalized the competitive discipline that would define her career. Her rise through the junior ranks and dominance on the WTA Tour were forged in the structured, supportive IMG Academy environment.

Michelle Cooper – Precision, Passion, and Poise

Michelle Cooper’s rise in women’s soccer began with sharpening her skills at IMG Academy. From tactical awareness to technical execution, IMG Academy’s competitive environment and holistic training helped her grow into one of the sport’s top young players.

On the field, Cooper was known for her vision and tenacity. Off it, she thrived in IMG Academy’s academic and personal development programs, building confidence and resilience. After excelling at Duke University, she was selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the NWSL Draft—prepared for the rigors of the pro game, thanks to IMG Academy’s comprehensive approach.

Jonathan Isaac – Built for Versatility and Leadership

Jonathan Isaac’s time at IMG Academy was transformative. Though physically gifted, Isaac needed structure, skill refinement, and maturity to fully realize his potential. IMG Academy provided all three.

He added strength through performance training, sharpened his two-way game, and developed into a leader on and off the court. The balance of academic support and elite basketball development positioned him to succeed at Florida State and eventually become a top NBA Draft pick.

Mark Williams – Strength Through Structure

Mark Williams entered IMG Academy with high expectations and left with the tools to exceed them. Under the guidance of IMG Academy’s basketball staff, he enhanced his agility, footwork, and timing, while also developing confidence in the classroom and in leadership roles.

The environment challenged him daily—with intense training, live scrimmages, and accountability across all areas. Williams embraced the full IMG Academy experience and went on to win a national title at Duke before entering the NBA. His well-rounded development at IMG Academy laid the groundwork for long-term success.

Zach Edey – Turning Size into Skill

Zach Edey had the size. IMG Academy helped develop his skill. Arriving in Bradenton, Edey worked with IMG Academy’s coaching staff to improve his mobility, conditioning, and basketball IQ.

Through tailored development plans and access to nutrition, sports psychology, and academic support, Edey made rapid gains. His dominance at Purdue and National Player of the Year honors are a testament to the comprehensive preparation he received at IMG Academy—where raw potential became refined excellence.

Venus & Serena Williams – Redefining Greatness

Venus and Serena Williams didn’t just break barriers—they built new ones. While their journey began in Compton, it was at IMG Academy where their explosiveness, mental toughness, and technical mastery took shape.

At IMG Academy, the sisters trained with a professional-level intensity under Nick Bollettieri from a young age. The competitive environment, combined with access to elite coaches and a high-performance support system, helped mold them into global icons. Their path through IMG Academy is a defining chapter in the story of two of the greatest athletes of all time.

Where Greatness Begins

What unites these athletes isn’t just talent—it’s the preparation they received at IMG Academy. Across every sport, IMG Academy delivers a complete experience rooted in athletic development, academic excellence, and personal growth.

These aren’t just success stories—they’re proof of what happens when hard work meets opportunity in the right environment.

At IMG Academy, the next generation of champions is already training.

Are you ready to join them?