Most of the members that make up Valley United started out playing AYSO at age five, and eventually through the years their soccer skills have improved and friendships have been established. Many of the team members made All-Stars, which later developed into a competitive tournament team. “We recently took the tournament team to the club level, adding a few players from Saugus and Valencia to create their club team – the Valley United Soccer Club BU13 Black,” states Janette McChesney, Team Administrator for a U13 boys club soccer team.  “This group is the only team from Valley United based in the Santa Clarita Valley.”

Led by coach Alec Hunter, the team shows their heart both on and off the field.  Coach Hunter believes in the importance of giving back to the community and is teaching his players not only lessons in soccer, but lessons in life, helping one another on and off the field.

In April, the teammates and coaching staff participated in the local Footsteps 5K Run in support of the Operation School Bell program, providing shoes for school children.  They have also participated in two food drives to collect food and other sundry items for the Help the Children oundation.  “They pick up the food, deliver it to the Foundation and even stock the shelves,” states Janette.  “This last food drive provided over 1500 items to the Help the Children Foundation.”

Wendy Lancy, director of the foundation was so pleased by the boys’ participation and enthusiasm that they have been invited back to participate in their holiday food distribution in December.  The team will also get a chance to meet the families who benefit from their efforts.

Last month, the soccer team also participated in a food drive where they assisted the Sand Canyon Homeowners Association by picking up and delivering food to the Feed the Children location. “I love to help people and I get to do it with my whole team,” states Valley United Soccer’s left defender, Austin McChesney. “ I am very proud to be a part of something so good.  I know the families need our help and it makes me happy to be able to help them!” 

A big thanks goes out to the Valley United Soccer Club, for showing their commitment to each other on the field as well as their dedication to helping fellow members of our community off the field.

photo by Nathalie Seguin

 
Pictured right: Coach Alec Hunter, standing:  Nicholas Devantier, Ariel Ramirez, Jacob DeYoung, Alec Chadwick, Austin McChesney Kneeling:  Zack Bietsch, Cody Rightmyer, Bryant Martinez, Cristian (JR) Quintero Seated:  Patrick (PJ) Goolsby, Michael Adams, Trevor Hladysh Not pictured:  Elijah Kliewer, Daniel Moran, Michael Pinon, Caesar Romo