By Mike Kinney
Veteran soccer coach Joel Martinez saw there was little for kids to do in his community. He also saw immense local soccer talent that needed fostering.
Those motivations became the fuel behind Coach Martinez’s launch of the Richmond Rayados youth soccer team in 2018. The competitive local program provides local youth a positive activity and also prepares top talent for opportunities to play in college or professionally. Coach Martinez said he launched the club to give local kids something to do, while also opening doors for them in the future.
“I thought by starting a soccer team, it would make them more focused and motivated to participate in something positive,” Martinez said.
Since launching, the club has contributed to the immense growth in participation and talent in the local soccer community. The Richmond Rayados age range averages from 7-18. Divisions are provided based upon talent level.
The program is closely associated with the Club de FĂºtbol Monterrey, a professional team and youth academy located in Monterrey, Mexico.
“We focus on high-level skill development, sportsmanship, competition, and fun,” Coach Martinez said. “We aim to mentor and inspire the next generation of competitive soccer players.”
Martinez’s son, Joel Jr., 18, has been on the soccer field with his dad since he was 3 years old. At age 15, he traveled with the Rayados to Spain, where they played a professional Italian team. He said diligent training at home provided players the mindset to face a professional squad.
Joel Jr. said he also likes playing and having friendly competition with local teams.
“We play really hard, and it’s really nice when your family and friends come to see you play,” he said.
The Richmond Rayados practice at Booker T. Anderson Jr. Park located at Cypress Avenue and S.49th Street in Richmond. Home field games are played at the Pinole Valley High football stadium. Interested in joining or learning more about the program? Contact Coach Martinez at (510) 734-2269 or [email protected].
