Soccer for Underprivileged Kids

About the Kids
We are a soccer team comprised of boys and girls 8-12 years old from the public school in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, Philippines. The kids come from very low-income homes where there's barely enough money for necessesities, and no extra money for soccer. They are passionate about the sport, and the highlight of their week is practice with coach Ira, coach Aking, and their friends.

About the Coaches
Coach Ira is a retired Filipino-American senior citizen who volunteers his time and knowledge to help raise the prospects of underprivileged children in the area. He and coach Aking (a Manolo Fortich native) keep practices fun and challenging for the kids.


About the Team
Since coaches Ira and Aking took over the team one year ago, they have gone from last place to #2 in the league! They have won numerous matches. Four of their top players have been offered soccer scholarships (tuition and board) to the best private school in the area, and will be reciving the best education possible. 

Our Goal
The region isn't wealthy, and the team gets zero funding. Currently, everything is being paid for by our coaches. We need funds for registration, equipment, uniforms, referee fees, and transportation to and from games. Our goal is to raise US$4,000 to fund the team for the entire year. We hope to make at least that much by the start of the season in June, so we can keep the kids playing! Success as a soccer team could mean the difference for many of these kids between a rudimentary education and an outstanding one, which would bring the opportunity for many of them to be the first in their families to go to college.