FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Garland, TX – Caldwell Elementary is making history as the only elementary school in Garland ISD with its own soccer club, offering fourth and fifth graders a rare chance to develop as athletes and leaders. Thanks to a generous partnership with USL Dallas, these young players are getting a major boost.
Inspired by the club’s mission, USL Dallas is equipping every student-athlete with the gear they need to play with confidence. Each player will receive new soccer shoes, shin guards, and balls, while the program will gain match jerseys, training cones, additional balls, goalie jerseys, and gloves, ensuring the club’s success for years to come.
To celebrate this game-changing donation, USL Dallas will host a special event at Caldwell Elementary on Wednesday, February 26, at 4:30 p.m. Students will be surprised with their new gear before taking the field for a short match to showcase their skills. Adding to the excitement, Alina Garciamendez from the Mexican League Women’s Team will make a special appearance to surprise the young players and share a few words of encouragement. The event will also include appearances from Lakeview Centennial High School’s cheerleaders, drill team, and the Classical Center at Brandenburg Middle School’s dance company, reinforcing the district’s strong support for the growing soccer pipeline.
“As soon as we heard about this program, we knew we had to do something to make sure they had everything they needed to build a successful program,” said Matt Valentine, founder and chairman of USL Dallas. “Soccer is such a beautiful sport, but there aren’t many opportunities at this age to play on a team unless you are on a club team. We are honored that we can give this to them and hopefully start a trend among elementary schools.”
“Matt and I met on a soccer field as kids, so we know firsthand how important it is to build that foundation and passion at a young age,” said Sam Morton, co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of USL Dallas. “We want to see these kids grow as athletes and students, and soccer is a wonderful way to build lifelong skills.”
The Caldwell Elementary soccer club was founded by first-year teacher Gisele Carone, whose passion for the game and the enthusiasm she saw at recess led her to create a space for students to play. Growing up in Brazil, Carone experienced firsthand how soccer can shape young lives, and she wanted to bring that same opportunity to her students. With support from parents and teachers, the club quickly took off, helping students build skills, confidence, and friendships.
“I’ve always believed soccer is more than just a game,” Carone shared. “It teaches teamwork, responsibility, and discipline. And now, it’s giving our students a chance to shine—academically, socially, and athletically.”
Media representatives are invited to attend for interviews and coverage of students receiving their new gear. To RSVP, please contact Typhani Braziel at tnbraziel@garlandisd.net or Amber Freeland at amber.freeland@usldallas.com.
“Having USL Dallas and the district’s support means everything,” Carone added. “Our kids are experiencing something they never thought possible, and that’s what it’s all about.”
About USL Dallas
USL Dallas is a USL Championship club sanctioned as a men’s Division II professional team by the U.S. Soccer Federation. USL Dallas was co-founded by lifelong friends and soccer enthusiasts Matt Valentine and Sam Morton with a mission to build community through professional soccer. The organization is committed to making soccer a sport for everyone and to inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders. For more information, visit usldallas.com.
View full photo album from GISD here.
