The Crusaders Soccer program is set for an exciting season, with a total of thirty-nine teams preparing for competition. This year, seven boys’ teams and four girls’ teams have been accepted into the United States Youth Soccer National League (USYS) Premiere 2 Division, a significant milestone for the club. Notably, this represents a 40% increase in the number of competitive teams compared to the previous season, thanks to the leadership of Victor Melendez and his dedicated support staff.
Victor Melendez expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, highlighting the strength of the coaching team. He stated, “We have a great group of professional, competitive coaches, and several are now serving with additional responsibilities.” Among these coaches are Justin Robinett and Erick Melendez, both of whom have taken on pivotal roles in player development.
As the girls’ director at Crusaders Soccer Club, Justin Robinett is focused on enhancing the technical and tactical skills of female athletes. He emphasized his commitment to creating a positive environment for growth. “At Crusaders Soccer Club, we’ve built a clear developmental pathway that begins at the foundational ages,” Robinett noted. He aims to support players in achieving their personal goals, whether that means pursuing collegiate soccer or becoming leaders in their communities.
Erick Melendez oversees the development of older boys’ teams, ensuring that all 11v11 teams are well-prepared for the National League program. He adopts a holistic approach, covering aspects such as playing style and recruitment. “We provide the best learning environment and encourage development,” he stated. His vision is for the boys’ program to become the largest and strongest in East County, fostering a sense of pride among players.
In addition to the anticipation surrounding the upcoming season, recent success at the Crown City Classic Soccer Tournament adds to the program’s momentum. Held on July 26-27, two teams — the Academy level 2013 and 2016 Boys teams — emerged victorious in their divisions. The 2013 team, coached by Lauren Johnson, achieved an impressive 18-7 scoreline over four matches, while the 2016 team, led by Ivon Melendez, scored a total of 22 goals while conceding only five. Ivon Melendez remarked on the significance of this achievement, noting that many players were new to competitive soccer. “It was a special win with so many new players. The team has jelled quickly, and every player is working hard,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Crusaders Soccer Club has seen strong interest in its recreational programs. Registration for the fall season closed on July 28, with nearly 1,000 players signed up. Modesto Guariniello, the director of coaching for the recreational division, thanked the club’s 13 volunteer division coordinators and coaches for their dedication. “It takes a committed village to have a viable program for so many boys and girls and ensure they have a fun and valuable experience,” he stated.
The recreational season will kick off on September 6, 2024, with games taking place across various grass fields in Allied Gardens, Del Cerro, and San Carlos. The club invites the community to come out and support the young athletes as they embark on their soccer journey.