Freedom FC Foundation provides an opportunity for all youth soccer players

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Freedom FC Foundation is giving young athletes in Yuma County the opportunity to play one of the region’s most popular sports at no cost.

The soccer club was created to eliminate the financial barriers that can prevent families from enrolling their children in competitive soccer programs while also providing opportunities for player development regardless of economic background.

"What we saw is there was a need in Yuma County for all aspects regardless if you're financially set or not the opportunity to learn and develop is most important," said Freedom FC Foundation Chairman Gary G. Snyder.

Beyond providing free access to the sport, the nonprofit organization is working to create a developmental pathway for athletes interested in pursuing soccer at higher levels.

Through a partnership with Freedom FC Arizona of the United Premier Soccer League, the foundation hopes to connect local players with opportunities that can eventually lead to collegiate and professional competition. The organization is also pursuing membership in the UPSL at the youth level.

"We have top talent in our high schools," Snyder said. "We have top talent at [Arizona Western College]. Unfortunately a lot of people aren’t being seen because we're in a small market, so we gave [players] a pathway from the foundation itself, which is a non-profit, to bringing in a pro team."

The program is designed to welcome players of all skill levels, from experienced competitors seeking opportunities to advance their careers to children stepping onto the field for the first time.

"There's ones that are looking for tryouts in high school, and then there's the other ones [who it's] their first time kicking a ball," said Freedom FC coach Fernando Chavolla.

The Freedom FC Foundation aims to provide opportunities for more than 200 young athletes by the end of its fiscal year.

Organizers believe the initiative can help grow the game throughout the Desert Southwest while ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent local children from participating and developing their soccer skills.

You can contact the team over the phone 480-851-2828, via email at freedomfcfoundation@gmail.com, on Instagram @freedomfcfoundation, or on Facebook under @FreedomFC.