Our 2007 Albion SC Central Cal boys from the Antelope Valley have received an unprecedented opportunity in this small valley to attend a national elite academy showcase in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. A year ago, the boys received an opportunity to play in the Elite Academy League. If you are familiar with soccer, youth soccer in California is primarily played through Cal South. Playing in the Elite Academy league has never before happened in the Antelope Valley. This level of play brings multiple opportunities to the youth. First, it allows them to compete against some of the highest ranked teams in California and nationwide. Second, they get seen by college scouts in hopes of securing a full ride scholarship to college. Lastly, be seen by professional or MLS scouts that could change their life. It has become a struggle for the boys and their parents to be able to cover such an immense cost.

The Antelope Valley consists of lower income hardworking families. These families do not have the means to cover all of the costs associated with playing at a high level. Our families are constantly fundraising, selling food and beverages during games and practices and any event that can help alleviate some of the costs year round. With the pandemic, we have had to travel out of state to maintain our player's mental health and continue doing what they most love to do - being out on the field! A lot of our families have faced hardships over the course of the past year, but not saying no to their son's dreams and aspirations has remained at the forefront of it all.

With playing in the higher level, it is a requirement to attend this national elite showcase held in Florida. MLS and college coaches will be in attendance, taking a look at the players who compete in this level. Our aspiration is that all of our boys receive a college scholarship, bring change to their hometown and change generations to come. The cost of attending Florida includes, airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, transportation and extra costs during the length of this event. The event is scheduled for December 3-5, 2021 however payment is due in October.

We thank you for taking our fundraiser into consideration. Any and all donations would greatly help the families be able to send their son to this event. It will make history as no 13 and 14 year old from the Antelope Valley has ever gotten this opportunity.

Best Regards,

Hany Helmy & the Albion SC Central Cal B07 family