In 2007, a group of about 35 young kids started practicing in a grass area of Farm Worker Village in Immokalee. The group was led by several adults and a group of Immokalee High School soccer players. Over the next year the group moved to the Immokalee Middle School soccer field because it became too large. In 2008 the group, now known as The Soccer Pit Youth Athletic Club, became a not for profit corporation to be able to accept donations.
We knew that soccer could become a vehicle for many of our kids to continue their education after high school. Our primary goal was for the players to stay in school and do well in all their academics while working toward the possibility of a college sports scholarships. We instituted a requirement that all participants had to maintain a minimum of a 2.0 Grade Point Average every semester in order to participate in the club. Their progress would be checked each quarter, and if they slipped below the 2.0GPA we would meet with them and offer them academic assistance.
Over the years that small group has grown to over 200 players participating in recreational and competitive programs. We have been able to guide and assist many players to seek a college education or learn a trade. This has made a difference in their lives. Many of our teams have done well in local and state competitions. In 2016 our U17 Boys fought their way through state and regional competition in The Florida Presidents Cup and traveled to Tulsa Oklahoma to play in the National tournament where they placed second. An incredible accomplishment for a team from a small town like ours.
Today we continue our efforts to promote education as a pathway to a bright and successful future while they enjoy playing the beautiful game of futbol.
