A developmental soccer team has set its roots in Glendora and rebranded itself recently, aiming to provide new opportunities for growth to youth soccer players.
The Golden State Misioneros FC, formerly known as the LA Misioneros FC, announced their new name, their new partnership and the start of a new season during a press conference at the Glendora Masonic Lodge the morning of May 6. The Golden State Misioneros FC play all home games at Citrus College.
Ronald Moreno, Colombian player for the Misioneros speaks to the delegation of Glendora representatives Wednesday, May 6.
The team has partnered with the FC Golden State, a Pasadena-based soccer youth academy, providing 88 teams for boys and girls ages 5 to 19.
“They are working together for something that is going to be a very solid organization,” said Fernando Paramo, team spokesman. ‘We are also trying to reach out to the community to make sure this is an to really be a team based in Glendora.”
Gerardo Camacho, owner and president of the Golden State Misioneros FC, is excited to gain local support for the team as well as for its efforts with area youth soccer players.
Rob Gurule, Misioneros sports director and member of the FC Golden State Academy, said being part of the team fulfills a dream of his, having been raised in the San Gabriel Valley and having been educated at Citrus College and Azusa Pacific University.
Rob Gurule, Misioneros sports director, listens to one of his athletes talk May 6.
“Soccer is not just a sport, it’s a passion and we hope that the passion can grow on the city. I’m really excited that this is here,” Gurule said.
The team sports an international roster of players, some from Bolivia, England, Brazil and many from the U.S.
Colombian player Ronald Moreno spoke through Paramo and said that he admires the goal of the team’s partnership and hopes to grow in his experiences this season.
Glendora Mayor Karen Davis expressed her thanks on behalf of the city for the team choosing Citrus College as their field of choice.
“We’re excited about the development and promotion of young soccer stars and helping them in their future,” Davis said.
The Golden State Misioneros FC play in the USL Premier Development League, the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid in the southwest division of the Western Conference.
The Golden State Misioneros will play their first home game at Citrus College, with the kick-off starting at 7:30 p.m.
