In the summer of June 2018, Bay United hosted a West Ham North American Academy Regional Player ID Camp through GIS who are responsible for connecting West Ham with youth soccer institutions throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. During the 3-day camp, participating players were trained and evaluated by a coach from West Ham. Players displaying advanced level of play were invited to the West Ham North American Academy National Camp.

John Mahoney, at the time 8-years old, was selected for the National Camp in July at Darlington School located in Rome, Georgia.  The national camp is a huge event featuring over 300 of the best players on the continent. Here they get to work with the Academy coaching staff for four days in-depth, assessing players capable of returning to England to advance into the Elite programs.

John was part of the under 10-year-old group, which were some of the most talented players throughout the United States and Canada.  Training sessions were morning, afternoon and evening with a duration of approximately 100-minuteswith the same methods, techniques and drills as the West Ham United Academy.  Players were consistently evaluated and after the camp received a written assessment of their performance based on a myriadof elements.  Players that excelledduring this camp were invited to the West Ham Academy Elite Camp in London England.

In mid-August John received notification that his performances at National Camp were of an extremely good standard and earned an invitation West Ham Academy Elite Trip in London England.  The Elite Trip is April 13-21, 2019 and is a unique opportunity to train at one of the most storied Academies in English Football. Players will be trained by West Ham United Academy Coaches at the West Ham Training Facilities, with the opportunity to be integrated within the Academy Teams. The week will be capped off with matches against West Ham teams and a live Premier League Match.