Naples native signs academy contract with FC Naples

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK)—Naples native Alex Bulai-Tudor has signed an academy contract with FC Naples.

The Barron Collier graduate is training with FC Naples as he develops. Bulai-Tudor previously trained with the Chicago Fire Academy and spent time overseas in Italy.

"My family here is just me and my parents. They were away from me for a year, so they were happy when I got back and heard that I'd be training here, and then they offered me an academy contract, so they were even more excited," Bulai-Tudor said.

Bulai-Tudor said one of the best parts of the opportunity is helping inspire the next generation of local players.

"Growing up, I didn't get that… they [FC Naples] weren't here when I was here, so yeah, it's just, it's a blessing," Bulai-Tudor said.

 FC Naples Co-Founder and CEO Roberto Moreno said the two-year-old club is already developing its own talent.

"We are the professional team in town, so it's important for us to be that beacon and inspire the youth to hopefully play on the team, work on the team, support the team, whatever it is they want to do," Moreno said.

Fans will have a chance to meet players during FC Naples' World Cup watch parties at Paradise Coast Sports Complex. Every game will be shown on the 40-foot Jumbotron facing the Great Lawn.

"Depending on the game, there'll be different activities, there'll be food trucks, there'll be draft beer, there'll be activities for kids," Moreno said.

WINK News will be at the watch parties throughout the tournament bringing coverage of the World Cup's impact locally.