SAN DIEGO – San Diego Loyal SC goalkeeper Duran Ferree has been called into the United States Under-17 Men’s National Team squad selected by Head Coach Gonzalo Segares for a nine-day domestic training camp from Jan. 5-13 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

The 16-year-old becomes the first active SD Loyal player to be called up to a U.S. National Team camp.

“We are extremely proud of Duran for earning this opportunity,” SD Loyal Head Coach Nate Miller said. “To see his progression from Loyal Select to becoming our first Academy product to sign a professional contract and now a National Team call up, it’s a testament to his dedication and commitment. This is a proud moment for our club and community.”

Ferree is part of a 23-player roster of the top U-17 American players from around the world. The January camp represents the final gathering before Segares names his final roster for the 2023 CONCACAF U-17 Championship, taking place Feb. 11-26 in Guatemala. The tournament’s four semifinalists will qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2023.

Ferree signed professionally with SD Loyal this past September, becoming the first player in club history to join the pro ranks from the club’s Loyal Select development pathway. The San Diego native was 15 years old when he signed with SD Loyal, making him the youngest player in club history. Ferree played in two regular season matches in 2022, including making his first start against New Mexico United on Oct. 10. He recorded four saves across 135 minutes of action.

“This is a really exciting moment for me. It’s an honor to be called up to the National Team and have the opportunity to represent the United States,” said Ferree. “For me, to be training everyday alongside Koke (Vegas) and our entire team of talented players, I feel extremely prepared to perform at a high level and represent San Diego at this camp.”

Ferree joined the inaugural Loyal Select team on April 22, 2021. After a standout season with Loyal Select, Ferree signed a USL Academy contract on Jan. 28, ahead of the 2022 USL Championship season before signing his first professional contract.