The Crusaders Soccer Club is preparing for an exciting season, with a total of **39 competitive teams** gearing up to compete. Notably, seven boys’ teams and four girls’ teams have been accepted into the **United States Youth Soccer National League (USYS)** Premiere 2 Division, marking a significant achievement for the program. This development comes as the club reports a **40% increase** in the number of competitive teams compared to the previous season.
Under the leadership of **Victor Melendez**, the program has made remarkable strides, bolstered by a dedicated coaching staff. Melendez emphasized the quality of their coaching team, stating, “We have a great group of professional, competitive coaches, and several are now serving with additional responsibilities.” Among those coaches are **Justin Robinett** and **Erick Melendez**, who are playing pivotal roles in the development of the players.
Robinett, who serves as the girls’ director and head coach for two National League teams, expressed his commitment to fostering a positive environment for female athletes. “My coaching philosophy is rooted in positivity, empowerment and purposeful growth—both on and off the field,” he stated. He highlighted the club’s clear developmental pathway, which supports players in reaching their personal goals, whether in collegiate soccer or beyond.
Erick Melendez oversees the development of the older boys’ groups, ensuring that all **11v11 teams** are integrated into the National League program. He adopts a holistic approach to player development, focusing on technical skills, recruiting, and educational opportunities. “We strive to provide a platform for players to be exposed to college soccer and hopefully use soccer as a vehicle to achieve higher education,” he said. His vision is to establish the boys’ program as one of the strongest in **East County**, fostering a sense of pride and community among players.
The competitive spirit of the Crusaders was recently showcased at the **Crown City Classic Soccer Tournament** held in Coronado on **July 26-27, 2023**. Two teams emerged victorious in their divisions: the **2013 Boys** team, coached by **Lauren Johnson**, and the **2016 Boys** team, coached by **Ivon Melendez**. The 2013 team demonstrated impressive skills, outscoring opponents **18-7** over four games, while the 2016 team scored **22 goals** and allowed only five. Ivon Melendez noted that half of the 2016 team was competing in their first competitive matches, highlighting the rapid teamwork and effort from new players.
As the season approaches, registration for the **fall recreational season** has concluded, with nearly **1,000 recreational-level players** signed up. **Modesto Guariniello**, the director of coaching for the recreational division, expressed gratitude to the volunteers who support the program. “It truly takes a dedicated village to have a viable program for so many boys and girls,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of providing a fun and valuable experience for all participants.
The fall season is set to commence on **September 6, 2023**, with games scheduled across grass fields in **Allied Gardens**, **Del Cerro**, and **San Carlos**. The Crusaders Soccer Club invites the community to join in and support the teams as they embark on what promises to be an exhilarating season ahead.
