George Washington University Athletics
In the Mix: Diego Peña Earns Dominican Republic U-21 Camp Invite
6/4/2026 12:06:00 PM | Men's Soccer
For rising-sophomore goalkeeper Diego Peña, a summer trip home brought an opportunity he had been working towards for years.
Peña was invited to the Dominican Republic U-21 national team training camp, marking his first international call-up since U-17. The camp serves as part of the selection process for the Central American and Caribbean Games, which will be held in the Dominican Republic later this summer.
"It's amazing," Peña said. "When I first got called up for the U-17s, it was one of my proudest moments. You put all that work in, and getting a call-up for your national team is one of the best feelings there is for soccer.
"My identity as a Dominican is really strong. It's in my roots, and I'm proud to be one. Representing your country is one of the best things you can do."
The Santo Domingo native was one of approximately 30 players invited to the training camp as coaches evaluate talent ahead of naming the final roster. While the competition for spots remains ongoing, he embraced the chance to return to the national team environment and prove himself against high-level competition.
The week-long camp featured multiple daily training sessions and matches against top talent from across the player pool, including professionals and players competing internationally.
"You're playing with high-quality people," said Peña. "That's something that's going to translate amazingly to GW."
While the final roster decision is still ahead, Peña already believes the experience will help accelerate his development entering his sophomore season.
"Especially for goalkeepers, maturity and experience are really important. It really has been a huge mental and confidence boost for what I can do in the fall season."
That confidence comes at an exciting time for the Revolutionaries as they prepare for their first season under head coach Matt Watts.
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"We're just a team that's really excited," Peña said about the Revolutionaries. "We've worked a lot with the new coaching staff, and we're excited to keep building. We know we have to put in the work, but it's a bright future ahead."
As he awaits news on the final U-21 roster, Peña plans to continue training in the Dominican Republic before returning to D.C. later this summer.
And if GW fans are wondering what to expect this fall?
"Be excited," Peña said. "It's going to be a fun season."
