RISTOZI ACADEMY
Baltimore’s premier youth soccer academy with elite coaching, a competitive environment, and a proven winning culture that develops complete players both on and off the field.
THE STANDARD IN BALTIMORE
Launching Fall of 2026
LETTER FROM THE OWNERS
Dear Baltimore Soccer Families,
When we founded Ristozi FC in 2022, we had a simple but ambitious vision: build something special for Baltimore. A club that competes at the highest level, operates with professionalism, and represents our city with pride.
In just three years, we've gone from playing in local leagues to qualifying for the U.S. Open Cup. We've won championships, competed against professional teams, and built a culture rooted in Faith, Professionalism, and Respect. But we always knew this was just the beginning.
Now, we're ready for the next chapter: Ristozi Youth Academy.
Our passion for soccer began in Greece, where we developed within an elite academy system before moving to the United States. Inspired by our father’s professional career, the game has always been at the core of our lives. Having lived the academy pathway firsthand, we know what it takes to develop the next generation of players.
Baltimore's young soccer players deserve The Standard - the same culture of excellence, professionalism, and winning mentality that drives our men's team. They deserve elite coaching, top-tier facilities, and an environment that prepares them for the next level.
We invite you to join us in building the future of Baltimore soccer.
Excellence is The Standard.
Anesti & Francis Shkurti
Founders, Ristozi FC
LATEST NEWS
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Anesti Shkurti & Francis Shkurti
Founders
The Shkurti brothers founded Ristozi FC in 2022 with a vision to bring professional soccer excellence to Baltimore. In just three years, they've built a club that competes at the highest level, qualifying for the U.S. Open Cup and winning championships. Now they're bringing that same commitment to youth development.
Dylan Shepherd
Director, Ristozi Academy
Dylan Shepherd serves as Head Coach of Ristozi FC's men's team, leading the club to an NPSL East Region Championship, Mid-Atlantic Championship, and National Semifinal appearance in their inaugural 2025 season. He's the youngest head coach in both NPSL history and U.S. Open Cup history. His focus on developing players both on and off the field, combined with his tactical expertise and ability to recruit and develop talent, makes him the ideal leader for Ristozi Academy.
Ristozi Academy teams compete in the Elite Development Program (EDP) - one of the most competitive youth soccer leagues in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Launching Fall 2026 with U8-U12 teams, our players will train year-round with licensed coaches in a professional environment. Multiple training sessions per week, league matches, and tournament opportunities prepare athletes for the next level.
