On October 19th, Engelwood Community Center will celebrate the one year anniversary of their inaugural Soccer League. As they approach the historic mark, let us reflect on how their soccer vision came into place and enveloped the Engelwood community.
Orlando City first became involved with the Engelwood Community Center in June of 2013 when District 2 City Commissioner Tony Ortiz and Coca-Cola collaborated to renovate the soccer ‘corral'. Orlando City's Foundation provided a micro-grant to assist in corral production, which included materials such as turf, reinforced guard rails, and modified goals.
Micro-grants given by the Orlando City Foundation are grants distributed in amounts of $500-$1,000. They are given to organizations, which bring programs to under-served areas. The grant allowed Engelwood to organize their first year of soccer programs for children 4-6 years old.
Program head Randolph Holloman credits the Lions for their contribution and their mutual goals to unite and empower children through sports. The Orlando City Foundation and Engelwood believe that soccer has made a permanent home at their Community Center, and the facility will continue to serve for many years to come.
