Masters Academy International (MAI) today announced that one of prep school soccer’s most successful coaches, James Proctor, has been appointed Director of Men’s Soccer.

26-year Worcester Academy veteran who developed NCAA champions and Hermann Trophy candidates to lead MAI’s flagship soccer program.

STOW, MA – Masters Academy International (MAI) today announced the appointment of James Proctor as Director of Men’s Soccer, bringing one of prep school soccer’s most successful coaches to the academy’s inaugural athletics program. Proctor, who led Worcester Academy to the 2022 National Championship and has placed over 200 players into college soccer programs, will establish MAI’s men’s soccer program when the academy opens in Fall 2026.

“James Proctor represents the gold standard in prep school soccer coaching,” said Peter Masters, Co-Founder and Director of Athletics at MAI. “His remarkable track record of developing players who excel at the highest levels of college soccer, combined with his commitment to character development, on and off the field, makes him the perfect leader to establish our men’s soccer program.”

Proctor brings 26 seasons of experience at Worcester Academy, where his teams have been ranked in the national top-10 more than ten times since 2012. His program has recruited players from over 25 states and 20 countries, creating a truly global soccer environment. Most recently, his former players Nash Barlow and TJ Liquori helped the University of Vermont capture the 2024 NCAA Division I National Championship, while Abdel Talabi earned recognition as a 2025 MAC Hermann Trophy Candidate.

“At Masters Academy International, we’re building a program that challenges athletes to compete with passion, train with purpose, and lead with integrity,” said Proctor. “Success will be measured not only by wins and college commitments, but by the growth, resilience, and character developed through the process.”

The men’s soccer program at MAI will feature professional-level training environments, high-level prep school league competition, and select national showcases. The program will serve students in grades 6-12, with development pathways designed to prepare athletes for success at top college programs and beyond.

“Our pathway is built on development, exposure, and progression,” Proctor explained. “Through mentorship, academic guidance, and consistent performance environments, our athletes will be fully prepared to succeed at top college programs and beyond.”

A former professional soccer player with 12 years of experience in England and the United States, Proctor holds a United States Soccer Federation (USSF) National “B” coaching license.

His playing career included stints with Bradford City AFC and Rochdale AFC in England, as well as multiple USL teams in America.

Under Proctor’s leadership at Worcester Academy, players have advanced to programs including UCLA, Brown, Boston College, Providence, UMass Amherst, Williams College, University of Vermont, and many more prestigious institutions. His comprehensive approach to player development emphasizes technical excellence, tactical understanding, and the personal growth necessary for success both on and off the field.

Masters Academy International, part of Cognita’s global network of 100 schools, is pioneering a new model for student-athlete development. Located in Stow, MA, the academy combines rigorous academics with elite athletic training, providing comprehensive support to help students reach their full potential.

About Masters Academy International: Masters Academy International is a groundbreaking boarding school opening in Fall 2026 that reimagines the student-athlete experience. Offering comprehensive academic programs alongside elite training in multiple sports, MAI provides students with the tools and support to excel in the classroom, on the field, and in life. Learn more at https://www.mastersacademyinternational.com/.

Media Contact: Mackenzie Weeden, Director of Marketing, Masters Academy International, media@mastersacademyinternational.com.