Today we’d like to introduce you to Atletico Elite Football Club.
Hi Atletico Elite Football Club, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Atletico Elite FC started with a dream and a decision made during one of my (Jonathan Long) deployments with the NAVY. I decided to pursue obtaining a coaching license with the United states soccer federation. I currently carry the license “D” and on my way to obtain my license “C”.
The motive: I really wanted to make a change with the community, “the pay to play” system had gotten me as well when my 3 children wanted to play club soccer! I researched and looked around the area, and all clubs charge no less than $1500 average for membership fees(not including uniforms or tournaments)
When I met Carlos Gamino playing soccer at a sunday league, we discovered we shared the same passion! Our own experiences highlighted the lack of access to sports at competitive levels not available to all community members.
We decided to form a non-profit soccer club that would focus on giving ‘Club level’ training to those who cannot afford to ‘pay to play’ in the big name clubs, without the need to break the bank.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been an easy road. From finding the right people to work with, who believe in the cause, the club, the Vision! Us two knowing we give first and receive later… We have been very fortunate to find Sponsors such as Wally Dally and Helix Dreamscapes, who believe in what we do!
We have encountered critics, doubters, and people who believe we are here for financial gain. None of these bumps have slowed us down or stopped us. We believe in our dream and goals! We will continue to honor them, and stay loyal to our cause and vision! Our struggles continue to be the mentality that a club who is pursuing access for players from all backgrounds and players who are developing are not always welcomed.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At AEFC we believe in ‘mastering the basics’.
This is what sets us apart from other clubs!
The standard is that when other clubs do try-outs to ‘pick’ the best prospects, Atletico Elite FC believes on being able to coach and teach anyone how to play the game. That’s why we stay true to our philosophy “master the basics”. Once a player knows the basics of the game, the rest is unlimited! We are very proud of how many kids that had never played soccer at all, are now dribbling, shooting, and playing as a team without hesitation or nervousness! They have fallen in love with the game! We break barriers for players and create an environment where learning is not just safe, but exciting!
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happy is seeing this kids scoring goals, winning games and overcoming the losses like true champions! It makes me extremely happy watching parents cheer for their children knowing that with a club like AEFC, they are able to afford it and not sacrifice other experiences for their families.
Most importantly, it makes me extremely happy that we have amazing people believing in US! like EJE Academies and their Enrichment Program!
Together we have put smiles on many families!
The memories, the tears, the sweat every one has gone through will always be present! We will be remembered as the founders and pioneers of this Club that will become legendary and loved by many families for many years! The players, parents, board members and individuals who continue to invest are part of this journey already and have had their part in the growth of AEFC.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.atleticoelite.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atleticoefc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Atletico-Efc/pfbid0SjUpMEcvppNFSQsQR7bHJsaCApcohwkcmh7bV4pSkm5ReL4VDRrDT2soyfyqyhQzl/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@atleticoelite9326
Image Credits
Area360Photography
