Elite Youth
Soccer Training

Botafogo Academy North Shore offers world-class youth soccer development. Our training programs combine elite Brazilian coaching techniques with a supportive, community-driven environment. We serve families in Highland Park, Evanston, Wilmette, Skokie, and surrounding areas with high-quality soccer training for boys and girls ages 5 to 18.

Whether your child is new to soccer or preparing for competitive play, we provide a clear path for growth, skill-building, and personal development. Our mission is to develop confident, technically skilled players who love the game and play with purpose.

Black background with a white shield emblem featuring a star in the center. Below the emblem, the text reads "BOTAFOGO ACADEMY" in bold white letters, and underneath, it says "NORTH SHORE ILLINOIS - USA".

Featured Training Programs

A young boy in a gray shirt and black shorts with white stripes playing soccer as a goalkeeper, bent forward with an excited expression, outdoors on a grassy field with two other kids in the background.

$200 per month, per student

Two young girls in soccer uniforms celebrating on a soccer field with hands raised, while another girl in a pink jersey stands to the side; spectators in the background.

$200 per month, per student

Who
we are

Founded on the legacy of Brazil’s iconic Botafogo club, Botafogo Soccer Academy brings world-class youth soccer training to Chicago’s North Shore. Built by former professional players and coaches, the academy blends Brazilian technique, discipline, and creativity to develop confident athletes ages 5 to 18. Our mission is to grow the game and inspire the next generation.

Three female soccer players in black and white striped uniforms celebrating on the field, arm-in-arm, smiling and joyful.
Three soccer players competing for the ball during a match, with two players in red jerseys and one in a black and white striped jersey, on a green field with a red advertising board and stadium seats in the background.
Soccer match with players competing for possession of the ball on the field.

Train like a champion

Soccer player in white uniform with captain's armband dribbling the ball, facing player in dark blue uniform during a game on a grassy field, with spectators in the background.
Soccer players celebrating with a large trophy after winning a match, surrounded by crowd and stadium.

Why families choose us

We bring the excellence of Brazilian soccer to Chicago.

Our curriculum is inspired by the training philosophy of Botafogo, one of Brazil’s most respected clubs. We focus on developing creativity, ball control, tactical intelligence, and game awareness.

Our coaches are leaders in youth sports performance.

Led by Coach Gustavo Schneebeli Da Cunha, our team includes experienced professionals with deep roots in soccer and physical training. Gustavo is a former high-level Brazilian soccer player and was the physical therapist for the Brazilian national gymnastics team and Olympic medalist Diego Hypolito. He brings a unique focus on strength, injury prevention, and recovery that helps young athletes thrive on the field.

We offer soccer programs for all skill levels.

Botafogo Academy North Shore provides year-round training for beginners, intermediate players, and advanced athletes. We offer small group sessions, individual coaching, team-based training, and seasonal soccer camps.

We make it easy for new teams to form.

If a specific age group is not yet active, families can join our wait list. We only require 10 players in an age range to launch a new team. This approach helps us grow with the community and provide tailored training to every group.

We focus on whole-athlete development.

Our programs are designed to support not only soccer skills but also physical fitness, confidence, discipline, and teamwork. Every session reflects our belief that youth sports can build better athletes and better people.

Contact Us

Have a question about our programs, wait list, or upcoming season? We’d love to hear from you. Fill out the form below and a member of our team will respond within one business day. Whether you're a parent, player, or community partner, we’re here to help.