SALINAS VALLEY — More than 400 young athletes from across Monterey County took to the fields of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex on July 12-13, participating in the Chevron Soccer Academy — an event that delivered not just elite soccer training, but inspiration, education and a whole lot of fun.
Now in its seventh year in Salinas, the free clinic and tryout is a joint effort by Chevron, Alianza de Futbol and the San Jose Earthquakes, with the goal of making high-level soccer opportunities accessible to youth in underserved communities.
Saturday’s clinic welcomed boys and girls ages 9 to 15 for a morning of skills training led by current and former professional players. The roster of guest coaches included World Cup legend Luis “El Matador” Hernández, Bay FC’s Karlie Lema, soccer freestyle world record-holder Laura Biondo and longtime San Jose Earthquakes star Shea Salinas.
“There was so much joy out there on the fields,” said Jonathan De Anda, general manager of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex. “These kids were learning from legends, getting better at the game they love and just having a great time. That’s what this place is all about — creating opportunity and building confidence.”
On Sunday, the focus shifted to competition, as youth ages 15 to 18 participated in tryouts in front of professional and collegiate scouts. Recruiters from teams including the San Jose Earthquakes, Club América, Chivas and Pachuca were on hand, scouting talent and encouraging athletes to pursue the next level.
In addition to soccer, the event featured the Chevron STEM Zone — a hands-on learning area that explores the science, technology, engineering and math behind the game. Youth visited the STEM Zone between drills, sparking curiosity alongside their passion for play.
De Anda said the Chevron Soccer Academy is one of many ways the Complex is working to build a healthier, more connected Salinas.
“This event represents exactly what we’re trying to create here — a place where kids can dream big, develop their potential and feel supported by their community,” he said.
The Chevron Soccer Academy is part of a national initiative, and its presence in Salinas has become a local tradition — one that continues to inspire the next generation of players, students and leaders.
For more information, visit chevronsocceracademy.com.
