Republic FC Academy Standout Judah Fisher Named Captain for Rwanda U-17 National Team
The 16-year-old defender will captain Rwanda’s U-17s as they begin their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign
Republic FC’s pipeline of elite youth talent continues to shine on the international stage. This time, it’s 16-year-old defender Judah Fisher earning the spotlight—receiving a call-up to the Rwanda U-17 National Team and being named team captain ahead of Africa Cup of Nations regional qualifiers.
A Leader Beyond His Years
Fisher’s latest call-up marks his second stint with the Rwandan youth side in as many years. Being handed the captain’s armband underscores not only Rwanda’s belief in him as a player, but his presence as a leader—rare praise for a defender who only began competing in Republic FC’s academy system in 2023.
Joining the club at the U-15 level after developing with Solano Surf, Fisher has become a defining piece of Republic FC’s U-17 squad. After topping their division at the U-16 level last season, the current group has carried that momentum straight into MLS NEXT play this fall, opening the campaign with a strong run of form.
Representing Sacramento at Home and Abroad
Fisher’s connection to Sacramento runs deeper than the pitch. A Republic FC supporter even before entering the academy, he has twice extended the club’s Unified Community values to Rwanda—partnering with Republic FC’s Community Investment team to deliver soccer balls, gear, and support to children during mission trips.
His return now comes in a different role: representing both Republic FC and the city of Sacramento as captain on the international stage.
A Rising Generation of Republic Talent
Fisher’s call-up adds to what has been a remarkable stretch for Republic FC’s academy players.
Sergio Suarez was recently invited to Uruguay’s U-17 National Team camp.
Da’vian Kimbrough, who balances duty between the academy and first team, earned a U.S. U-16 National Team call-up—and wore the captain’s armband in an international friendly against Spain.
Across age groups, the pattern is unmistakable: Republic FC continues to cultivate some of the most promising young players in the country, and their impact is being felt far beyond northern California.
What Comes Next
Rwanda’s U-17 side will look to Fisher for leadership as they attempt to secure qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations. For Republic FC, it’s another moment of pride—another sign that its youth pathway continues to produce players who compete, lead, and elevate the club’s identity on the global stage.
And for Fisher, it’s the next step in a young career already defined by maturity, ambition, and a growing international footprint.
Republic FC's academy continues to produce exeptional talent. Judah Fisher being named captain at just 16 years old for Rwanda's U-17s is a testiment to his leadership and maturity on the field. The fact that he's also been involved in community work delivering soccer equipment to kids in Rwanda shows real character. Great to see Sacramento players making an impact internationally.