Get a Trial with a Professional Club in Europe

We’re hosting an exclusive ID Camp for 25 selected players with our coaching staff from Portugal – right here in the USA.

The GDS Cascais ID Camp is an elite, immersive scouting experience where top players train directly with UEFA-licensed coaches from a professional European club.
Selected players will receive a fully funded, 1-week trial in Portugal — including training, accommodation, and full integration into the club’s performance program.

This is not just another soccer camp. It’s your chance to gain pro-level training, get direct exposure, and receive honest, personalized feedback. Whether your dream is to play college soccer or go pro, this camp is designed to identify, develop, and elevate the most promising players.

Book a call below to see if you qualify

What players are Saying

Here’s What You’ll Experience at the ID Camp

Train Directly with GDS Cascais Coaches

Train face-to-face with the coaching staff leading GDS Cascais’ Performance Teams. These UEFA-licensed coaches bring the same development philosophy used at elite European academies — giving you a real taste of the pro environment.

A High-Level, Competitive Environment

This isn’t a mass participation event. We hand-select players to ensure you're surrounded by peers at a similar level. Expect high intensity, professional feedback, and an atmosphere that pushes you to bring your best.

A Proven Track Record

Our ID Camps have led to real success stories — including players who earned their first professional opportunities after just one weekend. When you train with us, you join a network of motivated, high-achieving athletes.

About GDS Cascais

GDS Cascais is based in one of Europe’s most stunning regions: Cascais, Portugal. The club operates with a professional structure and competes in Portugal’s highly competitive Lisbon regional leagues — with a clear vision to reach European tournaments such as the UEFA Conference League and Europa League within the next decade.

With world-class facilities, an experienced leadership team, and a professional coaching staff, GDS Cascais is quickly becoming a recognized hub for international player development.

Nuno Oliveira

Sporting Director

Nuno brings a wealth of experience in Portuguese football, having managed CF Belenenses from 2018 to 2021. Prior to that, he developed young talent as an assistant coach at Belenenses U19 and Benfica U17. His background in youth development and senior team management positions him as a key figure in shaping the sporting vision of G.D.S. Cascais.

Goncalo Moura

CEO

With experience both on and off the field, Gonçalo has made significant contributions to soccer in Portugal. As a coach in the youth academy system, he achieved success at Sporting CP and CF Belenenses, working with top talents like Rafael Leão and João Félix. Off the pitch, Gonçalo is the founder of several soccer projects worldwide.

David Dwinger

Chairman of the Board

Co-Founder and CEO of ve2ventures. Launched in 2023, ve2ventures specialises in developing innovative digital products for the sports, media, and entertainment industries. Based in Amsterdam, the venture studio combines over 50 years of collective expertise from its team members who have held pivotal roles at Airbnb, Adidas, Eurosport, 433, HP, PayPal, eBay, and Fanatics.

Pedro Pinto

Advisor of the Board

With nearly 30 years of experience in sports, Pedro Pinto has worked with some of the biggest organizations and personalities in the global sports industry. During his tenure at UEFA, he led communications for flagship competitions such as the Champions League and the European Championship. At CNN, he stood out as a presenter and correspondent for major international sporting events.

Bárbara Vara

Advisor of the Board

With over 15 years of leadership and business management experience, Bárbara Vara is a global sports marketing professional, specialised in Talent Management, Endorsements, Sponsorship Sales, and Brand Activations. Recognised for her ability to inspire teams and drive strategic growth, she has worked alongside some of the most prominent figures in sport, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, José Mourinho, and Jorge Mendes.

Nuno Esteves

Advisor of the Board

With 25 years of experience in the soccer industry, Nuno brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our organization. As the former Executive Director of Estoril Praia in Portugal’s top league, Nuno facilitated transfers for renowned players such as Juan Mata and Steven Vitória. His goal is to create opportunities for North American players to shine on the European stage.

3-Day ID Camp Agenda

Atlanta, GA

Age Groups

Group C: 12-16 years old

Group B: 17-19 years old

Group A: 20-25 years old

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

9:00 AM – Arrival

9:30 AM – Session 1

11:00 AM – Break

3:00 PM – Arrival

3:30 PM – Session 2

5:00 PM – End

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

9:00 AM – Arrival

9:30 AM – Session 1

11:00 AM – Break

3:00 PM – Arrival

3:30 PM – Session 2

5:00 PM – End

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

9:00 AM – Arrival

9:30 AM – Session 1

11:00 AM – Break

3:00 PM – Arrival

3:30 PM – Session 2

5:00 PM – End

Additional Information

Bring your own cleats, shin guards, and training gear.
Parents are welcome to observe.
All sessions will be recorded for post-camp evaluation.
All sessions will be conducted in English.

Your Path to Playing in Europe

01

Book a Call

Book a Call

Book a Call

Speak directly with one of our coaches. We’ll assess your goals and see if you’re a fit for the ID Camp.

Speak directly with one of our coaches. We’ll assess your goals and see if you’re a fit for the ID Camp.

Speak directly with one of our coaches. We’ll assess your goals and see if you’re a fit for the ID Camp.

02

Join the ID Camp

Join the ID Camp

Join the ID Camp

Train with our Portuguese coaching staff in your U.S. city. You’ll be grouped by age and level

03

Trial in Portugal

Trial in Portugal

Trial in Portugal

Top players will be invited to Portugal for a fully covered, 1-week professional trial with GDS Cascais' Performance Teams.

Top players will be invited to Portugal for a fully covered, 1-week professional trial with GDS Cascais' Performance Teams.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of the ID Camp?

The goal of the ID Camp is to give players from the USA a real opportunity to be evaluated by a professional soccer club in Portugal, Europe. GDS Cascais’ Recruitment Department organizes these scouting camps in different countries to broaden the pool of talented players who dream of turning professional. The ID Camps are led by GDS Cascais coaches, who travel internationally to deliver high-level training sessions and identify top talent.

What is the goal of the ID Camp?

The goal of the ID Camp is to give players from the USA a real opportunity to be evaluated by a professional soccer club in Portugal, Europe. GDS Cascais’ Recruitment Department organizes these scouting camps in different countries to broaden the pool of talented players who dream of turning professional. The ID Camps are led by GDS Cascais coaches, who travel internationally to deliver high-level training sessions and identify top talent.

What is the goal of the ID Camp?

The goal of the ID Camp is to give players from the USA a real opportunity to be evaluated by a professional soccer club in Portugal, Europe. GDS Cascais’ Recruitment Department organizes these scouting camps in different countries to broaden the pool of talented players who dream of turning professional. The ID Camps are led by GDS Cascais coaches, who travel internationally to deliver high-level training sessions and identify top talent.

How do I register for the ID Camp?

To register, fill out the form on this page and schedule your mandatory pre-camp call. After the call, you’ll receive full registration details. If you're under 18 or still living with your parents, a parent or guardian must attend the call with you. This call helps our coaching staff assess your fit for the ID Camp and answer any questions. The call is free of charge.

How do I register for the ID Camp?

To register, fill out the form on this page and schedule your mandatory pre-camp call. After the call, you’ll receive full registration details. If you're under 18 or still living with your parents, a parent or guardian must attend the call with you. This call helps our coaching staff assess your fit for the ID Camp and answer any questions. The call is free of charge.

How do I register for the ID Camp?

To register, fill out the form on this page and schedule your mandatory pre-camp call. After the call, you’ll receive full registration details. If you're under 18 or still living with your parents, a parent or guardian must attend the call with you. This call helps our coaching staff assess your fit for the ID Camp and answer any questions. The call is free of charge.

Is there a cost to attend the ID Camp?

Participation in the camp itself is free. However, players are required to invest in the Virtual Preparation Program, which must be completed before the camp begins.

Is there a cost to attend the ID Camp?

Participation in the camp itself is free. However, players are required to invest in the Virtual Preparation Program, which must be completed before the camp begins.

Is there a cost to attend the ID Camp?

Participation in the camp itself is free. However, players are required to invest in the Virtual Preparation Program, which must be completed before the camp begins.

How should I prepare for the ID Camp?

If you're selected during the call, you'll be invited to join the Virtual Preparation Program, which includes: Weekly mentorship sessions with feedback on recent games or trainings (if recorded) Player profile expectations for each position Drills and exercises you'll perform at the ID Camp Fitness and nutritional plans Tactical actions (individual and team-based, with and without the ball) Access to small-group training in your region before the camp The opportunity to register for a second ID Camp in case the first one doesn’t go as planned (only available to players in the program) Access to the 1-week trial in Portugal (flights, accommodation, and meals not included) This program shows our coaches that you're committed to the process of becoming a professional player.

How should I prepare for the ID Camp?

If you're selected during the call, you'll be invited to join the Virtual Preparation Program, which includes: Weekly mentorship sessions with feedback on recent games or trainings (if recorded) Player profile expectations for each position Drills and exercises you'll perform at the ID Camp Fitness and nutritional plans Tactical actions (individual and team-based, with and without the ball) Access to small-group training in your region before the camp The opportunity to register for a second ID Camp in case the first one doesn’t go as planned (only available to players in the program) Access to the 1-week trial in Portugal (flights, accommodation, and meals not included) This program shows our coaches that you're committed to the process of becoming a professional player.

How should I prepare for the ID Camp?

If you're selected during the call, you'll be invited to join the Virtual Preparation Program, which includes: Weekly mentorship sessions with feedback on recent games or trainings (if recorded) Player profile expectations for each position Drills and exercises you'll perform at the ID Camp Fitness and nutritional plans Tactical actions (individual and team-based, with and without the ball) Access to small-group training in your region before the camp The opportunity to register for a second ID Camp in case the first one doesn’t go as planned (only available to players in the program) Access to the 1-week trial in Portugal (flights, accommodation, and meals not included) This program shows our coaches that you're committed to the process of becoming a professional player.

Can I bring a guest player to the ID Camp?

Yes! Guest players are welcome. They must also complete the registration form and pre-camp call.

Can I bring a guest player to the ID Camp?

Yes! Guest players are welcome. They must also complete the registration form and pre-camp call.

Can I bring a guest player to the ID Camp?

Yes! Guest players are welcome. They must also complete the registration form and pre-camp call.

How many players are allowed per age group at the ID Camp?

Each age group is capped at 25 players (22 field players + 3 goalkeepers) to ensure high-quality evaluation. Group A: 20+ years old Group B: 17–19 years old Group C: 12–16 years old

How many players are allowed per age group at the ID Camp?

Each age group is capped at 25 players (22 field players + 3 goalkeepers) to ensure high-quality evaluation. Group A: 20+ years old Group B: 17–19 years old Group C: 12–16 years old

How many players are allowed per age group at the ID Camp?

Each age group is capped at 25 players (22 field players + 3 goalkeepers) to ensure high-quality evaluation. Group A: 20+ years old Group B: 17–19 years old Group C: 12–16 years old

Where is the ID Camp located?

The camp location varies by city but will be held at high-quality turf or grass fields in the USA. You'll receive the full address after completing the registration and call.

Where is the ID Camp located?

The camp location varies by city but will be held at high-quality turf or grass fields in the USA. You'll receive the full address after completing the registration and call.

Where is the ID Camp located?

The camp location varies by city but will be held at high-quality turf or grass fields in the USA. You'll receive the full address after completing the registration and call.

Why do I need to book a call before the ID Camp?

The call helps our staff understand your goals, evaluate your background, and determine if you're a fit for the camp. It's also your chance to ask questions before committing.

Why do I need to book a call before the ID Camp?

The call helps our staff understand your goals, evaluate your background, and determine if you're a fit for the camp. It's also your chance to ask questions before committing.

Why do I need to book a call before the ID Camp?

The call helps our staff understand your goals, evaluate your background, and determine if you're a fit for the camp. It's also your chance to ask questions before committing.

What topics are discussed during the call before the ID Camp?

We’ll discuss your playing background, family support, development goals, academic situation, camp structure, and the Portugal opportunity. Coaches will assess your level of commitment and availability to go through the process.

What topics are discussed during the call before the ID Camp?

We’ll discuss your playing background, family support, development goals, academic situation, camp structure, and the Portugal opportunity. Coaches will assess your level of commitment and availability to go through the process.

What topics are discussed during the call before the ID Camp?

We’ll discuss your playing background, family support, development goals, academic situation, camp structure, and the Portugal opportunity. Coaches will assess your level of commitment and availability to go through the process.

Who should attend the call before the ID Camp?

At least one parent or guardian should attend the call with the player—especially for anyone under 18—to ensure everyone is well-informed.

Who should attend the call before the ID Camp?

At least one parent or guardian should attend the call with the player—especially for anyone under 18—to ensure everyone is well-informed.

Who should attend the call before the ID Camp?

At least one parent or guardian should attend the call with the player—especially for anyone under 18—to ensure everyone is well-informed.

Will there be food, snacks, or refreshments at the ID Camp?

Players should bring their own water and light snacks. Water may be available on-site, but food is not provided.

Will there be food, snacks, or refreshments at the ID Camp?

Players should bring their own water and light snacks. Water may be available on-site, but food is not provided.

Will there be food, snacks, or refreshments at the ID Camp?

Players should bring their own water and light snacks. Water may be available on-site, but food is not provided.

What time does the ID Camp start and end each day?

Most camps run from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Final schedules will be provided after registration and may vary slightly by location.

What time does the ID Camp start and end each day?

Most camps run from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Final schedules will be provided after registration and may vary slightly by location.

What time does the ID Camp start and end each day?

Most camps run from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Final schedules will be provided after registration and may vary slightly by location.

Who are the coaches?

The camp is led by UEFA-licensed coaches from GDS Cascais, a top Portuguese development club. They’ve previously worked at elite academies including Sporting CP, SL Benfica, CF Belenenses, FC Porto, and Casa Pia.

Who are the coaches?

The camp is led by UEFA-licensed coaches from GDS Cascais, a top Portuguese development club. They’ve previously worked at elite academies including Sporting CP, SL Benfica, CF Belenenses, FC Porto, and Casa Pia.

Who are the coaches?

The camp is led by UEFA-licensed coaches from GDS Cascais, a top Portuguese development club. They’ve previously worked at elite academies including Sporting CP, SL Benfica, CF Belenenses, FC Porto, and Casa Pia.

What should I bring to the ID Camp?

Bring full training gear (cleats, shin guards, socks, shorts, jersey), a water bottle, and any required medications. A notebook is recommended for taking feedback.

What should I bring to the ID Camp?

Bring full training gear (cleats, shin guards, socks, shorts, jersey), a water bottle, and any required medications. A notebook is recommended for taking feedback.

What should I bring to the ID Camp?

Bring full training gear (cleats, shin guards, socks, shorts, jersey), a water bottle, and any required medications. A notebook is recommended for taking feedback.

What are the selection criteria for the winners of the ID Camp?

Bring full training gear (cleats, shin guards, socks, shorts, jersey), a water bottle, and any required medications. A notebook is recommended for taking feedback.

What are the selection criteria for the winners of the ID Camp?

Bring full training gear (cleats, shin guards, socks, shorts, jersey), a water bottle, and any required medications. A notebook is recommended for taking feedback.

What are the selection criteria for the winners of the ID Camp?

Bring full training gear (cleats, shin guards, socks, shorts, jersey), a water bottle, and any required medications. A notebook is recommended for taking feedback.

What is the prize for the ID Camp winners?

Selected players receive a 1-week, all-inclusive trial experience with GDS Cascais in Portugal—training and living like a professional player.

What is the prize for the ID Camp winners?

Selected players receive a 1-week, all-inclusive trial experience with GDS Cascais in Portugal—training and living like a professional player.

What is the prize for the ID Camp winners?

Selected players receive a 1-week, all-inclusive trial experience with GDS Cascais in Portugal—training and living like a professional player.

How many players are selected from each ID Camp?

Usually, 1 to 3 players per age group are selected from each camp, depending on performance and overall talent level.

How many players are selected from each ID Camp?

Usually, 1 to 3 players per age group are selected from each camp, depending on performance and overall talent level.

How many players are selected from each ID Camp?

Usually, 1 to 3 players per age group are selected from each camp, depending on performance and overall talent level.

What happens next for players who participate in the ID Camp?

All participants receive personalized feedback. Selected players travel to Portugal. Others may be invited to future events or continue development with additional support in the USA.

What happens next for players who participate in the ID Camp?

All participants receive personalized feedback. Selected players travel to Portugal. Others may be invited to future events or continue development with additional support in the USA.

What happens next for players who participate in the ID Camp?

All participants receive personalized feedback. Selected players travel to Portugal. Others may be invited to future events or continue development with additional support in the USA.

What is the Trial Experience in Portugal?

This is a 7-day program at GDS Cascais, where selected players train with the club's Performance teams in a professional setting. The goal is to assess whether the player fits into the club's future.

What is the Trial Experience in Portugal?

This is a 7-day program at GDS Cascais, where selected players train with the club's Performance teams in a professional setting. The goal is to assess whether the player fits into the club's future.

What is the Trial Experience in Portugal?

This is a 7-day program at GDS Cascais, where selected players train with the club's Performance teams in a professional setting. The goal is to assess whether the player fits into the club's future.

Is the trip to Portugal really free for selected players?

Yes. The trial experience in Portugal covers lodging, meals, training, and local transportation. Flights are also included.

Is the trip to Portugal really free for selected players?

Yes. The trial experience in Portugal covers lodging, meals, training, and local transportation. Flights are also included.

Is the trip to Portugal really free for selected players?

Yes. The trial experience in Portugal covers lodging, meals, training, and local transportation. Flights are also included.

What happens after the Portugal experience if I'm selected?

If you impress the coaches, you may be invited to join the club’s Performance teams for a longer-term development plan.

What happens after the Portugal experience if I'm selected?

If you impress the coaches, you may be invited to join the club’s Performance teams for a longer-term development plan.

What happens after the Portugal experience if I'm selected?

If you impress the coaches, you may be invited to join the club’s Performance teams for a longer-term development plan.

What are the chances of earning a spot on the club’s Performance teams?

Players who stand out during the trial may be offered a place. GDS Cascais has international players on its rosters every season, based on merit and fit.

What are the chances of earning a spot on the club’s Performance teams?

Players who stand out during the trial may be offered a place. GDS Cascais has international players on its rosters every season, based on merit and fit.

What are the chances of earning a spot on the club’s Performance teams?

Players who stand out during the trial may be offered a place. GDS Cascais has international players on its rosters every season, based on merit and fit.

What is the level of GDS Cascais?

GDS Cascais is one of Portugal’s top development clubs, competing in national youth leagues. The first team is on an upward path toward promotion and will soon compete against top-tier clubs like SL Benfica, Sporting CP, and FC Porto. The club also participates annually in elite tournaments such as the Cascais Cup and Lisbon Cup.

What is the level of GDS Cascais?

GDS Cascais is one of Portugal’s top development clubs, competing in national youth leagues. The first team is on an upward path toward promotion and will soon compete against top-tier clubs like SL Benfica, Sporting CP, and FC Porto. The club also participates annually in elite tournaments such as the Cascais Cup and Lisbon Cup.

What is the level of GDS Cascais?

GDS Cascais is one of Portugal’s top development clubs, competing in national youth leagues. The first team is on an upward path toward promotion and will soon compete against top-tier clubs like SL Benfica, Sporting CP, and FC Porto. The club also participates annually in elite tournaments such as the Cascais Cup and Lisbon Cup.

Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal if selected?

US citizens do not need a visa for short stays under 90 days. Our team will guide selected players and families through any documentation needed.

Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal if selected?

US citizens do not need a visa for short stays under 90 days. Our team will guide selected players and families through any documentation needed.

Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal if selected?

US citizens do not need a visa for short stays under 90 days. Our team will guide selected players and families through any documentation needed.

Is the ID Camp open to girls as well as boys?

Currently, the camp is boys only, as our partnership with GDS Cascais focuses on their boys’ performance teams. A girls’ program may be developed in the future.

Is the ID Camp open to girls as well as boys?

Currently, the camp is boys only, as our partnership with GDS Cascais focuses on their boys’ performance teams. A girls’ program may be developed in the future.

Is the ID Camp open to girls as well as boys?

Currently, the camp is boys only, as our partnership with GDS Cascais focuses on their boys’ performance teams. A girls’ program may be developed in the future.

Can parents stay and watch the training sessions?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe from designated areas. Please refrain from interacting with players or staff during sessions.

Can parents stay and watch the training sessions?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe from designated areas. Please refrain from interacting with players or staff during sessions.

Can parents stay and watch the training sessions?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe from designated areas. Please refrain from interacting with players or staff during sessions.

Don’t miss your chance
Only 25 players per city

Estadio Dramatico de Cascais

Rua da Torre, 2750-748 Cascais

Estadio Dramatico de Cascais

Rua da Torre, 2750-748 Cascais

Estadio Dramatico de Cascais

Rua da Torre, 2750-748 Cascais