# @hfdacademy on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DeHsI2jDX2g
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/71277954-hfdacademy-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/c8eeaa273e.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-10-05T16:57:08.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** hfdacademy (@hfdacademy) — https://gondola.cc/hfdacademy

## Caption

🔥 A GENUINE HOMEGROWN PATHWAY 🔥

Hartford Athletic II went toe-to-toe with CT United’s Pro Team as they prepare for MLS Next Pro playoffs, falling 3-1 in a challenging matchup against experienced professional opposition.

But the scoreline doesn’t tell the whole story.

At just 15 years old, our very own, homegrown Liam Franks found the back of the net against professional opposition in spectacular fashion.⚽️🔥

Think about that. 15 years old. Homegrown. Scoring against professional opposition.  Hartford Athletic Academy continues to lead in giving young players real opportunities to compete at the professional and pre professional level, challenging and showcasing themselves, beyond their age group.

The average age of our squad was just 18 years old, highlighting the youth and potential within this HAII group. From the players who started to those who came off the bench, this team stepped into a challenging environment and gained invaluable experience against a professional side.

Our youngest players were right in the mix, with Nicky Guerrero (2012)also earning valuable minutes and continuing his development at the next level.

This isn’t just about one game.
It’s about creating opportunities.
Its about trusting young players
It’s about advancing Hartford Homegrown 

➡️ Building a clear path to full time professional soccer

⚽️ Stay tuned for tryout information for winter 2026

#HartfordAthletic #HAII #LiamFranks #Homegrown #PathwayToPro #PlayerDevelopment #NextGeneration #HartfordSoccer #TheFutureIsHere

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 226
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 4

## Credits

| Name | Username | Profile | Role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Gezer Vazquez | @frozencoquimedia | https://gondola.cc/frozencoquimedia | Photographer |

## Tags

nextgeneration, hartfordathletic, haii, homegrown, pathwaytopro, hartfordsoccer, thefutureishere, playerdevelopment, liamfranks

---
Copyright (c) Gondola