In just three weeks, Republic FC doubled the safe space for area youth to play at Northgate Park in Natomas. On October 8, the Indomitable Club invited Councilmember Jeff Harris, Azteca FC Coach Rose Shoen, and the Carrillo family to help dedicate a new community futsal court project, converting an unused tennis court into a new futsal court, and refresh the existing court.
Carrillo Courts at Northgate Park – named in honor of local soccer coach Arturo “Art” Carrillo, opened this afternoon for a ribbon cutting and kick around on one of the new courts. The kids from Azteca FC helped City Councilmember Jeff Harris, Republic FC President and COO Ben Gumpert, and an excited community break in the new courts.
These courts have an extra special meaning. Across the new surface are twin murals created by local artist Marco Estrada. His design incorporates elements of Mexican culture and heritage – to serve a reminder of the diversity of our community and the continued commitment to learn about different cultures and traditions. Decorative nopales across a mountainous landscape in pastel tones decorate both courts, with more artwork to come.
Even one of the club’s youngest players got in on the action. Academy standout Julian Chavez helped bring the courts to life when he helped the community investment team build goals for the project.
On a day when one of the club’s young talents was named a finalist for Young Player of the Year – its great to see another place for the next generation of Sacramento soccer player to sharpen their skills.
Azteca FC Founder and Coach Rose Shoen has championed the refurbishment of this court with local leaders. Her indomitable spirit has advanced the project along through city council presentations, the creation of community surveys in English and Spanish to meet the needs of the community and working with Republic FC to bring a vision to life.
