Napa United 2010 Boys take their game to UK

Soccer is more than a game for some kids. Read our story of a team’s hard work, passion, big dreams, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

A group of fifteen 11 & 12-year-old boys from Napa United 1839 Soccer Academy have been invited to play in an international tournament in Oakham, England, hosted by Manchester United F.C. in August 2022.

Our 2010 Boys team comes from Napa and Sonoma Valley in Northern California. In June 2021, these boys joined together at Napa United to see what magic they could create. They have grown into an accomplished team of kind, bright and playful boys who love the game of soccer. They are also committed athletes and serious competitors on the field training rigorously 3-4 nights each week year-round. Though the pandemic kept them from competing in their NorCal league, they stayed loyal to their love of soccer and trained at home, alone, often on Zoom, improving their skills while keeping their bodies and minds strong. When they returned to play this Fall 2021 season, they successfully competed in Pre-NPL, the top level of their age group. These boys are supportive and protective of each other, showing grit, character and respect on the field. They know their team is stronger together and that each player has a crucial role in making their team complete. This is their magic.

Playing in an English tournament allows the boys an opportunity of a lifetime. To compete against top Premier League Youth Academy teams is a true honor for our Napa United team. A couple of the boys have never been on an airplane before! The opportunity to play against other boys from around the world, from clubs our players idolize on TV, is a dream come true!

Napa United embraces the philosophy that soccer is a game for all to play. However, the price of international opportunities can force dedicated, deserving, quality players to not compete and support their team from home. The tournament fees are $1500 per player, covering field costs plus room and board at Oakham School in Oakham, England. Together we are stronger, so our goal is to raise $22,500 to cover the fees of all 15 players (not including travel costs). If you are a fan of the game, love a story of team success, or want to support our 11 & 12-year-olds get to England for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, please consider donating.

Vamos Napa! Let’s GO Napa United!! Together We Are Stronger!

Thank you,

Andreas, Carlos, Eli, Isaac, Jesse, Jorge, Judah, Julian, Lucas, Luis, Naim, Oliver, Oli, Sebi, Xander, and their families