Republic FC Adds Youth to the Backline

Republic FC has announced the addition of academy players Luke Strassburg and Rohan Chivukula to the club's first team roster. The pair of defenders have signed USL Academy contracts that are pending league and federation approval. They will be eligible to play in first-team matches for the 2026 season.

Rohan Chivukula joined Republic FC's academy in 2024 and quickly integrated himself into the U-19's defense. In Rohan's first year, the squad won the Northwest Division of MLS NEXT with a record of 16-3-3. And from there, they made it to the round of 32 in the postseason. Chivukula has previously played for El Dorado Hills Soccer Club and Sacramento United. And he is committed to play for American University at the collegiate level in the fall of 2026.

Luke Strassburg has had a long tenure with the Sacramento academy, featuring for every age group since 2020. Strassburg consistently found success in the academy, where each squad he's played in has reached the MLS NEXT CUP. His best finish came in 2025, when the U-17 team reached the semifinals of the MLS NEXT CUP Playoffs. Strassburg has also been invited to U.S. Soccer ID camps and training camps. Strassburg previously played for the San Jose Earthquakes' youth academy and Sacramento United. And he has committed to play for San Diego State at the collegiate level in the fall of 2026. Strassburg also appeared on the State of the Republic Podcast this past season, where he discussed his experience as part of the academy system.

Republic FC Head Coach Neill Collins on the additions: "These signings reflect the strength of our pathway and commitment to developing local talent. Bringing academy players into the first team environment prepares them for the next level and we have no doubt that Luke and Rohan will continue to represent the academy well during training camp and throughout the season.”

The USL Academy contracts let players train and compete with the first team in professional matches while maintaining their NCAA eligibility, if they choose to go that route. It has been great to see the Republic make use of this tool and expose players to a professional environment. The Republic has been taking advantage of the natural talent in the surrounding areas and helping them step up to the next level. And they have a history of developing that talent and either having them play with the first team or finding professional opportunities elsewhere. And it's great to see that Neill Collins has the same commitment to youth as managers in the past.

Welcome to the first team, Luke and Rohan!