Futbol Takeover E7

>> on the intersection of business, >> on the intersection of business, community, culture, and our favorite community, culture, and our favorite community, culture, and our favorite sport, football. sport, football. sport, football. We are here recording live from We are here recording live from We are here recording live from Innovation Studio in downtown Houston, Innovation Studio in downtown Houston, Innovation Studio in downtown Houston, thanks to the in-studio production by thanks to the in-studio production by thanks to the in-studio production by Creatopia Inc. So, um, yeah, this is a Creatopia Inc. So, um, yeah, this is a Creatopia Inc. So, um, yeah, this is a beautiful sunny day beautiful sunny day beautiful sunny day and we are ready to and we are ready to and we are ready to to talk a little bit about football. Um, to talk a little bit about football. Um, to talk a little bit about football. Um, remember that you can leave your your remember that you can leave your your remember that you can leave your your comments and questions in the live chat. comments and questions in the live chat. comments and questions in the live chat. Um, here, let me let me check what we Um, here, let me let me check what we Um, here, let me let me check what we have going on here, but yeah, um, today have going on here, but yeah, um, today have going on here, but yeah, um, today is going to be a a special day. Like I is going to be a a special day. Like I is going to be a a special day. Like I mentioned last week, we really want to mentioned last week, we really want to mentioned last week, we really want to focus, uh, on youth soccer and, you focus, uh, on youth soccer and, you focus, uh, on youth soccer and, you know, after World Cup, there's just so know, after World Cup, there's just so know, after World Cup, there's just so many great things happening, so much many great things happening, so much many great things happening, so much enthusiasm around the sport. Um, a lot enthusiasm around the sport. Um, a lot enthusiasm around the sport. Um, a lot of new faces, a lot of people that are of new faces, a lot of people that are of new faces, a lot of people that are interested, a lot of youth that are also interested, a lot of youth that are also interested, a lot of youth that are also interested, but the reality is that, um, interested, but the reality is that, um, interested, but the reality is that, um, youth soccer has been big here in youth soccer has been big here in youth soccer has been big here in Houston for for a long time and there's Houston for for a long time and there's Houston for for a long time and there's a um, a lot of individuals that have a um, a lot of individuals that have a um, a lot of individuals that have been part of that space. And so, I think been part of that space. And so, I think been part of that space. And so, I think it's really important to get to know it's really important to get to know it's really important to get to know them, learn a little bit about what they them, learn a little bit about what they them, learn a little bit about what they have going on, um, you know, how how have going on, um, you know, how how have going on, um, you know, how how they've seen, um, they've seen, um, they've seen, um, the impact of of soccer or actually just the impact of of soccer or actually just the impact of of soccer or actually just the sport, uh, grow and, um, and then the sport, uh, grow and, um, and then the sport, uh, grow and, um, and then also see kind of where it's going. So, also see kind of where it's going. So, also see kind of where it's going. So, today's guest is today's guest is today's guest is um um um Let me tell you a little bit about him.

Let me tell you a little bit about him. Let me tell you a little bit about him. Uh he's an entrepreneur, educator, a Uh he's an entrepreneur, educator, a Uh he's an entrepreneur, educator, a soccer executive, insurance soccer executive, insurance soccer executive, insurance professional, and a devoted husband and professional, and a devoted husband and professional, and a devoted husband and father who has built his career around father who has built his career around father who has built his career around developing people both on and off the developing people both on and off the developing people both on and off the field. So, with more than 15 years of and business leadership, William has and business leadership, William has served as a teacher served as a teacher served as a teacher uh technology specialist, athletic uh technology specialist, athletic uh technology specialist, athletic administrator, and youth soccer leader. administrator, and youth soccer leader. administrator, and youth soccer leader. He's the founder of Katy Elite He's the founder of Katy Elite He's the founder of Katy Elite Athletics, an organization dedicated to Athletics, an organization dedicated to Athletics, an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for young creating opportunities for young creating opportunities for young athletes and families through sports, athletes and families through sports, athletes and families through sports, mentorship, and community engagement. He mentorship, and community engagement. He mentorship, and community engagement. He also serves in academy leadership and also serves in academy leadership and also serves in academy leadership and has directed camps and programs has directed camps and programs has directed camps and programs alongside internationally recognized alongside internationally recognized alongside internationally recognized soccer organizations helping develop soccer organizations helping develop soccer organizations helping develop thousands of young players across the thousands of young players across the thousands of young players across the United States. Uh I'm also going to say United States. Uh I'm also going to say United States. Uh I'm also going to say he's Salvadoran. So, that is why you see he's Salvadoran. So, that is why you see he's Salvadoran. So, that is why you see me here repping the me here repping the me here repping the >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> repping the the blue and white. So, >> repping the the blue and white. So, >> repping the the blue and white. So, William Escobar, welcome to the show.

William Escobar, welcome to the show. William Escobar, welcome to the show. >> Thank you. Thank you very much for >> Thank you. Thank you very much for >> Thank you. Thank you very much for inviting me. inviting me. inviting me. >> Yeah, no. Thank you so much for for >> Yeah, no. Thank you so much for for >> Yeah, no. Thank you so much for for coming. And coming. And coming. And um um um you know, this is This is an exciting you know, this is This is an exciting you know, this is This is an exciting time. Houston just hosted time. Houston just hosted time. Houston just hosted the biggest sporting event. There's the biggest sporting event. There's the biggest sporting event. There's there's still a lot of enthusiasm. I there's still a lot of enthusiasm. I there's still a lot of enthusiasm. I think you know, we've been in the soccer think you know, we've been in the soccer think you know, we've been in the soccer world now for many years, and so we we world now for many years, and so we we world now for many years, and so we we know it, but you know, there's just more know it, but you know, there's just more know it, but you know, there's just more eyes, more more um interest. And so, eyes, more more um interest. And so, eyes, more more um interest. And so, it's really exciting to have you here it's really exciting to have you here it's really exciting to have you here because you've been doing a lot in the because you've been doing a lot in the because you've been doing a lot in the soccer space for a long time. And so, soccer space for a long time. And so, soccer space for a long time. And so, want to definitely get to know more want to definitely get to know more want to definitely get to know more about that, and then also where your about that, and then also where your about that, and then also where your where's where you see things going. So, where's where you see things going. So, where's where you see things going. So, so thank you. Thank you for being here. so thank you. Thank you for being here. so thank you. Thank you for being here. >> Absolutely. Absolutely. Thank you for >> Absolutely. Absolutely. Thank you for >> Absolutely. Absolutely. Thank you for having me. having me. having me. >> Yeah. So, let's start at the beginning. >> Yeah. So, let's start at the beginning. >> Yeah. So, let's start at the beginning. Where did your love for the game start? Where did your love for the game start? Where did your love for the game start? >> Um I want to say when I arrived to this >> Um I want to say when I arrived to this >> Um I want to say when I arrived to this country, I think it was the country, I think it was the country, I think it was the the way to it became a universal the way to it became a universal the way to it became a universal language, right? If um you go out in the language, right? If um you go out in the language, right? If um you go out in the field and field and field and that's where you start meeting that's where you start meeting that's where you start meeting um um um the same um characters or not the same the same um characters or not the same the same um characters or not the same characters, but however in the field, characters, but however in the field, characters, but however in the field, you're all as one. You're on the part of you're all as one. You're on the part of you're all as one. You're on the part of the same team. You take part in the same the same team. You take part in the same the same team. You take part in the same demeanor that you want to be able to be demeanor that you want to be able to be demeanor that you want to be able to be successful and win.

successful and win. successful and win. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Um and I think early on that's what >> Um and I think early on that's what >> Um and I think early on that's what kept me so focused on it just because kept me so focused on it just because kept me so focused on it just because from youth soccer to from youth soccer to from youth soccer to where we are now, it's always been the where we are now, it's always been the where we are now, it's always been the same. It's always been same. It's always been same. It's always been um let's um let's um let's work as a team and the skills that you work as a team and the skills that you work as a team and the skills that you build from being part of that team, build from being part of that team, build from being part of that team, they they they can also be part of your life as an can also be part of your life as an can also be part of your life as an adult. adult. adult. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Which is the reason why I'm a big >> Which is the reason why I'm a big >> Which is the reason why I'm a big believer in youth sports. believer in youth sports. believer in youth sports. Um of course, um Um of course, um Um of course, um I always prioritize soccer just because I always prioritize soccer just because I always prioritize soccer just because that's where I grew up. That's where me that's where I grew up. That's where me that's where I grew up. That's where me and my dad um and my dad um and my dad um bonded with bonded with bonded with >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> and I can pass it on to my daughters as >> and I can pass it on to my daughters as >> and I can pass it on to my daughters as well. Um but well. Um but well. Um but it's it's also it's it's also it's it's also taught me a lot of different skills that taught me a lot of different skills that taught me a lot of different skills that education or college doesn't teach you. education or college doesn't teach you. education or college doesn't teach you. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> And as a youth player or a youth coach, >> And as a youth player or a youth coach, >> And as a youth player or a youth coach, you can see that and um I'm a big big um you can see that and um I'm a big big um you can see that and um I'm a big big um advocate for that. advocate for that. advocate for that. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And I want to push forward with that as >> And I want to push forward with that as >> And I want to push forward with that as well. well. well. >> No, that's awesome. And so, you so you >> No, that's awesome. And so, you so you >> No, that's awesome. And so, you so you you said that it was a universal you said that it was a universal you said that it was a universal language for you. So, um language for you. So, um language for you. So, um how how young did you start playing and how how young did you start playing and how how young did you start playing and and what what was that and what what was that and what what was that that trajectory or your career that trajectory or your career that trajectory or your career your trajectory your trajectory your trajectory uh in those early years?

uh in those early years? uh in those early years? >> I moved here my uh when I was 5 years >> I moved here my uh when I was 5 years >> I moved here my uh when I was 5 years old. Um I believe my dad old. Um I believe my dad old. Um I believe my dad signed me up for the YMCA when I was 6 signed me up for the YMCA when I was 6 signed me up for the YMCA when I was 6 years old. So years old. So years old. So Some of my friends that I'm still Some of my friends that I'm still Some of my friends that I'm still friends with, friends with, friends with, I believe at the age of eight I believe at the age of eight I believe at the age of eight we've played in the same team together. we've played in the same team together. we've played in the same team together. And my friend Rafa, my friend Jonathan, And my friend Rafa, my friend Jonathan, And my friend Rafa, my friend Jonathan, we we we still are friends and then it's just still are friends and then it's just still are friends and then it's just been progressing ever since. I mean, now been progressing ever since. I mean, now been progressing ever since. I mean, now we're in our 40s and we still try to we're in our 40s and we still try to we're in our 40s and we still try to play play play even though we can't anymore, but it's even though we can't anymore, but it's even though we can't anymore, but it's still a bonding experience that still a bonding experience that still a bonding experience that most of my friends are part of from the most of my friends are part of from the most of my friends are part of from the teams that I grew up playing with. teams that I grew up playing with. teams that I grew up playing with. >> That's really cool. And I I think that's >> That's really cool. And I I think that's >> That's really cool. And I I think that's that's such a beautiful thing because that's such a beautiful thing because that's such a beautiful thing because a lot of friends that I have that you a lot of friends that I have that you a lot of friends that I have that you know, played together yeah, I mean know, played together yeah, I mean know, played together yeah, I mean that continues on for for life. that continues on for for life. that continues on for for life. You know, they're still You know, they're still You know, they're still either you still continue playing in either you still continue playing in either you still continue playing in some sort of way or some sort of way or some sort of way or you know, be it indoor or outdoor, you know, be it indoor or outdoor, you know, be it indoor or outdoor, whatever, but then you also whatever, but then you also whatever, but then you also start start start being part of the the soccer ecosystem, being part of the the soccer ecosystem, being part of the the soccer ecosystem, right? So right? So right? So all right, so you played in school, you all right, so you played in school, you all right, so you played in school, you you played you played you played as a youth and then how did everything as a youth and then how did everything as a youth and then how did everything evolve from there? Because now you're evolve from there? Because now you're evolve from there? Because now you're also you're also coaching. I mean, so I also you're also coaching. I mean, so I also you're also coaching. I mean, so I just kind of you know, was there a just kind of you know, was there a just kind of you know, was there a moment where you were like, huh, this is moment where you were like, huh, this is moment where you were like, huh, this is this is something that I really want to

this is something that I really want to this is something that I really want to make sure that I continue doing beyond make sure that I continue doing beyond make sure that I continue doing beyond my passion? my passion? my passion? >> I believe the turning point was part of >> I believe the turning point was part of >> I believe the turning point was part of my junior year in high school. my junior year in high school. my junior year in high school. I learned early on that, you know, I'm I learned early on that, you know, I'm I learned early on that, you know, I'm not going to be a professional athlete, not going to be a professional athlete, not going to be a professional athlete, at least in soccer. at least in soccer. at least in soccer. However, However, However, I'm a student athlete, student first. So I'm a student athlete, student first. So I'm a student athlete, student first. So then then then a teacher, I remember an English teacher a teacher, I remember an English teacher a teacher, I remember an English teacher told me once like, you know, graduate told me once like, you know, graduate told me once like, you know, graduate top 10% and then you can top 10% and then you can top 10% and then you can the opportunities are going to be the opportunities are going to be the opportunities are going to be limitless. limitless. limitless. I I focus on that. I I focus on that. I I focus on that. I continued playing youth soccer I continued playing youth soccer I continued playing youth soccer and then I and then I and then I was able to find myself in a situation was able to find myself in a situation was able to find myself in a situation where okay, let me get a academic where okay, let me get a academic where okay, let me get a academic scholarship and also attend a school scholarship and also attend a school scholarship and also attend a school that offers soccer. that offers soccer. that offers soccer. And when I when I were I was able to And when I when I were I was able to And when I when I were I was able to figure that out, it just opened up so figure that out, it just opened up so figure that out, it just opened up so many opportunities. many opportunities. many opportunities. Then once I graduated college and I was Then once I graduated college and I was Then once I graduated college and I was um, you know, um, you know, um, you know, became my girlfriend at the time became became my girlfriend at the time became became my girlfriend at the time became my wife and she's always like my wife and she's always like my wife and she's always like she's always been adamant about she's always been adamant about she's always been adamant about following my passions and just being on following my passions and just being on following my passions and just being on the field is what I love to do. And just the field is what I love to do. And just the field is what I love to do. And just developing that talent, developing that developing that talent, developing that developing that talent, developing that youth, not just on the field but just youth, not just on the field but just youth, not just on the field but just everything else that you do. Like some everything else that you do. Like some everything else that you do. Like some of my players now that were in my youth of my players now that were in my youth of my players now that were in my youth player are my coaches now and I bring player are my coaches now and I bring player are my coaches now and I bring them with me in different camps.

them with me in different camps. them with me in different camps. They graduated college already and They graduated college already and They graduated college already and they're pursuing their careers and they they're pursuing their careers and they they're pursuing their careers and they also also also do that as well and they follow that as do that as well and they follow that as do that as well and they follow that as a passion. So it's just something that a passion. So it's just something that a passion. So it's just something that it hit me when I was in high school. I it hit me when I was in high school. I it hit me when I was in high school. I realized it and then I also want to be realized it and then I also want to be realized it and then I also want to be able to whenever I was in coaching high able to whenever I was in coaching high able to whenever I was in coaching high school level, I always I was very school level, I always I was very school level, I always I was very adamant about showing it at to the adamant about showing it at to the adamant about showing it at to the players. There's different options. players. There's different options. players. There's different options. There's different opportunities. It'd be There's different opportunities. It'd be There's different opportunities. It'd be wonderful if you become a professional wonderful if you become a professional wonderful if you become a professional athlete but there's also other avenues athlete but there's also other avenues athlete but there's also other avenues that you can pursue in that industry. that you can pursue in that industry. that you can pursue in that industry. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. No, and I I love that you mentioned the No, and I I love that you mentioned the No, and I I love that you mentioned the importance of that teacher, right? That importance of that teacher, right? That importance of that teacher, right? That helped you also realize like, hey, all helped you also realize like, hey, all helped you also realize like, hey, all right, there's I I do have to do this right, there's I I do have to do this right, there's I I do have to do this because teachers are so important. because teachers are so important. because teachers are so important. >> Absolutely. >> Absolutely. >> Absolutely. >> They can really change lives and then >> They can really change lives and then >> They can really change lives and then you're also in education. you're also in education. you're also in education. >> Correct. >> Correct. >> Correct. >> Or you were in education. Yeah. And so >> Or you were in education. Yeah. And so >> Or you were in education. Yeah. And so how how were those uh, those years of, how how were those uh, those years of, how how were those uh, those years of, you know, being in education and um, you know, being in education and um, you know, being in education and um, and just being like a mentor for for so and just being like a mentor for for so and just being like a mentor for for so many kids that you were coaching.

many kids that you were coaching. many kids that you were coaching. >> I feel like >> I feel like >> I feel like those years those years those years really impact me cuz I was of course I really impact me cuz I was of course I really impact me cuz I was of course I was I was younger. However, um was I was younger. However, um was I was younger. However, um I was a young a young father as well and I was a young a young father as well and I was a young a young father as well and I always wanted to be I always wanted to be I always wanted to be part of my my my kids growing up and part of my my my kids growing up and part of my my my kids growing up and that allowed me the opportunity to be that allowed me the opportunity to be that allowed me the opportunity to be able to do it. Um able to do it. Um able to do it. Um paid you decently in a way where you paid you decently in a way where you paid you decently in a way where you were able to have a career out of it but were able to have a career out of it but were able to have a career out of it but also you get to pursue your your your also you get to pursue your your your also you get to pursue your your your passion which is coaching. passion which is coaching. passion which is coaching. Again, you know, like I said you're a Again, you know, like I said you're a Again, you know, like I said you're a student athlete but you're a teacher student athlete but you're a teacher student athlete but you're a teacher coach here. Um and you impact students coach here. Um and you impact students coach here. Um and you impact students in such ways that you know, whenever in such ways that you know, whenever in such ways that you know, whenever they see you in the hallways and they they see you in the hallways and they they see you in the hallways and they straighten up just because oh that's straighten up just because oh that's straighten up just because oh that's coach like you know, don't don't affect coach like you know, don't don't affect coach like you know, don't don't affect my playing time. Um or the grades, my playing time. Um or the grades, my playing time. Um or the grades, right? Staying on top of the grades, right? Staying on top of the grades, right? Staying on top of the grades, attending school. Um I was in the attending school. Um I was in the attending school. Um I was in the education world when pre-COVID and education world when pre-COVID and education world when pre-COVID and during COVID. during COVID. during COVID. >> Oh wow. >> Oh wow. >> Oh wow. >> So I kind of got to see the um >> So I kind of got to see the um >> So I kind of got to see the um it was a blessing because during COVID I it was a blessing because during COVID I it was a blessing because during COVID I was more involved and more engaged with was more involved and more engaged with was more involved and more engaged with the parents. Something as simple as um the parents. Something as simple as um the parents. Something as simple as um you know, they don't know how to log in you know, they don't know how to log in you know, they don't know how to log in online or they don't have access to um online or they don't have access to um online or they don't have access to um internet at that point cuz they can't internet at that point cuz they can't internet at that point cuz they can't afford it. So then I would I work for afford it. So then I would I work for afford it. So then I would I work for HISD so they provided that. So it was HISD so they provided that. So it was HISD so they provided that. So it was like okay, I can get you a box and here like okay, I can get you a box and here like okay, I can get you a box and here you go, let's install it and you got to you go, let's install it and you got to you go, let's install it and you got to log in to school.

log in to school. log in to school. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Uh cuz we haven't seen you in a while or >> Uh cuz we haven't seen you in a while or >> Uh cuz we haven't seen you in a while or whatever like we need to be able to do whatever like we need to be able to do whatever like we need to be able to do that. So that was very impactful. Uh so that. So that was very impactful. Uh so that. So that was very impactful. Uh so then when it came to the season, they then when it came to the season, they then when it came to the season, they already knew oh this is my coach like he already knew oh this is my coach like he already knew oh this is my coach like he would go, he knows where my parents are would go, he knows where my parents are would go, he knows where my parents are like he's gone to the house. Um and like he's gone to the house. Um and like he's gone to the house. Um and I always wanted to be in a situation I always wanted to be in a situation I always wanted to be in a situation where I I selected a school where I was where I I selected a school where I was where I I selected a school where I was working at that I was um approachable in working at that I was um approachable in working at that I was um approachable in the in the sense where hey man, I've the in the sense where hey man, I've the in the sense where hey man, I've I've done what you've done. I've I've I've done what you've done. I've I've I've done what you've done. I've I've been where you've been and um you know, been where you've been and um you know, been where you've been and um you know, I can I can I can I wouldn't say to be a role model but I wouldn't say to be a role model but I wouldn't say to be a role model but just like be that just like be that just like be that um um um male figure that they kind of look to male figure that they kind of look to male figure that they kind of look to like okay, like okay, like okay, there is other opportunities out there there is other opportunities out there there is other opportunities out there that are there's there is another avenue that are there's there is another avenue that are there's there is another avenue outside of just working or or or playing outside of just working or or or playing outside of just working or or or playing soccer." soccer." soccer." >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah. No, that's that's that's really cool. No, that's that's that's really cool. No, that's that's that's really cool. And you you really got to see a big And you you really got to see a big And you you really got to see a big >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> a big change from pre-COVID to COVID >> a big change from pre-COVID to COVID >> a big change from pre-COVID to COVID time. So, time. So, time. So, >> Yes, absolutely. >> Yes, absolutely. >> Yes, absolutely. >> You know, I just major shout out to the >> You know, I just major shout out to the >> You know, I just major shout out to the teachers, the educators. I know that teachers, the educators. I know that teachers, the educators. I know that they're This is the week that a lot of they're This is the week that a lot of they're This is the week that a lot of them are going back to school and you them are going back to school and you them are going back to school and you know what? Sending all the positive know what? Sending all the positive know what? Sending all the positive energy and everything for a good school energy and everything for a good school energy and everything for a good school year because yeah, teachers are so year because yeah, teachers are so year because yeah, teachers are so important, educators are so important.

important, educators are so important. important, educators are so important. >> Absolutely. >> Absolutely. >> Absolutely. >> Wow. So, you were you were doing that >> Wow. So, you were you were doing that >> Wow. So, you were you were doing that and then I mean, but your and then I mean, but your and then I mean, but your your soccer your soccer your soccer career has career has career has I mean, you you've done a lot of I mean, you you've done a lot of I mean, you you've done a lot of different things because I know you were different things because I know you were different things because I know you were also also also you know, on the coaching staff for you know, on the coaching staff for you know, on the coaching staff for for a club and for a UPSL for a club and for a UPSL for a club and for a UPSL team as well. So, tell us a little bit team as well. So, tell us a little bit team as well. So, tell us a little bit about kind of going into that space. about kind of going into that space. about kind of going into that space. >> Um I I kind of feel like I've always >> Um I I kind of feel like I've always >> Um I I kind of feel like I've always been a person that um been a person that um been a person that um I don't shy away from opportunities. I don't shy away from opportunities. I don't shy away from opportunities. So, like my wife says, I say yes to So, like my wife says, I say yes to So, like my wife says, I say yes to pretty much any opportunity that I have. pretty much any opportunity that I have. pretty much any opportunity that I have. Um however, Um however, Um however, when when when that opportunity came along, it was that opportunity came along, it was that opportunity came along, it was because I was trying to I had a I had my because I was trying to I had a I had my because I was trying to I had a I had my own soccer academy that I built. Um I I own soccer academy that I built. Um I I own soccer academy that I built. Um I I had a great mentor, had a great mentor, had a great mentor, um coach Juan Carlos Ruiz, who had all um coach Juan Carlos Ruiz, who had all um coach Juan Carlos Ruiz, who had all the accreditations and everything. the accreditations and everything. the accreditations and everything. However, his passion was youth soccer. However, his passion was youth soccer. However, his passion was youth soccer. He could have gone and he he did coach He could have gone and he he did coach He could have gone and he he did coach professional all these different levels. professional all these different levels. professional all these different levels. He's in California now, but um me and He's in California now, but um me and He's in California now, but um me and him bonded over youth soccer and just him bonded over youth soccer and just him bonded over youth soccer and just doing it the right way. So, I started an doing it the right way. So, I started an doing it the right way. So, I started an academy in Rosenberg area where um academy in Rosenberg area where um academy in Rosenberg area where um my daughter and my nephews, they were my daughter and my nephews, they were my daughter and my nephews, they were all the same age, four or five years all the same age, four or five years all the same age, four or five years old, similar to how my dad did. That old, similar to how my dad did. That old, similar to how my dad did. That group. And um that group became group. And um that group became group. And um that group became a group and then it became to a part a group and then it became to a part a group and then it became to a part where I like, "Okay, well, where I like, "Okay, well, where I like, "Okay, well, let's build something bigger." Um in in let's build something bigger." Um in in let's build something bigger." Um in in in Houston, in order for you to get into in Houston, in order for you to get into in Houston, in order for you to get into the big leagues, the big um clubs

the big leagues, the big um clubs the big leagues, the big um clubs have to be able to have have to be able to have have to be able to have a team in each each age bracket. So then a team in each each age bracket. So then a team in each each age bracket. So then what I did is I looked for an what I did is I looked for an what I did is I looked for an opportunity to be able to merge my opportunity to be able to merge my opportunity to be able to merge my academy into them and one of the academy into them and one of the academy into them and one of the the the the opportunities came up where like, "Hey, opportunities came up where like, "Hey, opportunities came up where like, "Hey, we need a UPSL coach." we need a UPSL coach." we need a UPSL coach." And um it happened to be that they had And um it happened to be that they had And um it happened to be that they had two different ones and I kind of two different ones and I kind of two different ones and I kind of went with the one where it was the went with the one where it was the went with the one where it was the college kids coming. college kids coming. college kids coming. So So So we were able to we were able to we were able to get those kids, you know, we we saw how get those kids, you know, we we saw how get those kids, you know, we we saw how hard they worked, the trainings, they um hard they worked, the trainings, they um hard they worked, the trainings, they um wanted to be able to be out there. Some wanted to be able to be out there. Some wanted to be able to be out there. Some of them hadn't played since high school. of them hadn't played since high school. of them hadn't played since high school. Some of them were looking for different Some of them were looking for different Some of them were looking for different opportunities. So we were able to create opportunities. So we were able to create opportunities. So we were able to create from them graduating high school, just from them graduating high school, just from them graduating high school, just giving them the opportunity like, "Hey, giving them the opportunity like, "Hey, giving them the opportunity like, "Hey, you can go to college and play here." you can go to college and play here." you can go to college and play here." And also, you don't have to go to And also, you don't have to go to And also, you don't have to go to Division I. I just being able to educate Division I. I just being able to educate Division I. I just being able to educate them and teach them them and teach them them and teach them on life that we've been able to on life that we've been able to on life that we've been able to experience. That was that was great. Um experience. That was that was great. Um experience. That was that was great. Um and and also seeing the kids that I and and also seeing the kids that I and and also seeing the kids that I started coaching when they were young, started coaching when they were young, started coaching when they were young, now some of them are still playing um now some of them are still playing um now some of them are still playing um and they're still in the same academy. and they're still in the same academy. and they're still in the same academy. Um and that's that's always the goal, Um and that's that's always the goal, Um and that's that's always the goal, you know, right? Like keep them playing you know, right? Like keep them playing you know, right? Like keep them playing and and keep them safe because um and and keep them safe because um and and keep them safe because um those they sometimes they spend more those they sometimes they spend more those they sometimes they spend more time with us as a coach, especially when time with us as a coach, especially when time with us as a coach, especially when you're in in in schools and education.

you're in in in schools and education. you're in in in schools and education. Those kids, you know, some of them Those kids, you know, some of them Those kids, you know, some of them sometimes those boys or those girls are sometimes those boys or those girls are sometimes those boys or those girls are with you 4 hours afterwards. And those 4 with you 4 hours afterwards. And those 4 with you 4 hours afterwards. And those 4 hours are very impactful cuz they could hours are very impactful cuz they could hours are very impactful cuz they could be doing other things. be doing other things. be doing other things. And but they're with you and um they And but they're with you and um they And but they're with you and um they they grow a bond with you and like I they grow a bond with you and like I they grow a bond with you and like I said, now some of them some of them I said, now some of them some of them I said, now some of them some of them I still I still keep in touch with. Some still I still keep in touch with. Some still I still keep in touch with. Some of them work with me. And um like I of them work with me. And um like I of them work with me. And um like I mentioned, I always don't shy away from mentioned, I always don't shy away from mentioned, I always don't shy away from opportunities. And I hope that's what opportunities. And I hope that's what opportunities. And I hope that's what they learn at least from they learn at least from they learn at least from from the time they spend with me. from the time they spend with me. from the time they spend with me. >> That's that's amazing. That's that's >> That's that's amazing. That's that's >> That's that's amazing. That's that's amazing. And so that initial academy amazing. And so that initial academy amazing. And so that initial academy that that you founded, is that what has that that you founded, is that what has that that you founded, is that what has now become um Katy Elite Athletics? now become um Katy Elite Athletics? now become um Katy Elite Athletics? >> Correct. Correct. So, then it >> Correct. Correct. So, then it >> Correct. Correct. So, then it [clears throat] became from uh meeting [clears throat] became from uh meeting [clears throat] became from uh meeting the right the right parents um and then the right the right parents um and then the right the right parents um and then meeting the right connects and then meeting the right connects and then meeting the right connects and then sitting down, having a plan, and um sitting down, having a plan, and um sitting down, having a plan, and um discussing how can we impact more? discussing how can we impact more? discussing how can we impact more? Um and it was like, "Okay, let's let's Um and it was like, "Okay, let's let's Um and it was like, "Okay, let's let's create create create um um um let's create a teaching environment let's create a teaching environment let's create a teaching environment where the kids are learning. We also are where the kids are learning. We also are where the kids are learning. We also are teaching coaches teaching coaches teaching coaches um and we're also um and we're also um and we're also um um um taking on opportunities that others taking on opportunities that others taking on opportunities that others can't do. So, kind of be build a can't do. So, kind of be build a can't do. So, kind of be build a business plan. Um shout out to Elva who business plan. Um shout out to Elva who business plan. Um shout out to Elva who helped me along along the way with it.

helped me along along the way with it. helped me along along the way with it. Uh when we started, she was very Uh when we started, she was very Uh when we started, she was very instrumental on on telling us what we instrumental on on telling us what we instrumental on on telling us what we needed to do, what we needed what we needed to do, what we needed what we needed to do, what we needed what we shouldn't do, what worked for her in the shouldn't do, what worked for her in the shouldn't do, what worked for her in the past, and what didn't. And um past, and what didn't. And um past, and what didn't. And um it's become what it is now where we just it's become what it is now where we just it's become what it is now where we just um um um you know, kind of take on the uh the you know, kind of take on the uh the you know, kind of take on the uh the gigs and then create the um the modules gigs and then create the um the modules gigs and then create the um the modules or the curriculum or the curriculum or the curriculum so it can either be a summer camp that so it can either be a summer camp that so it can either be a summer camp that somebody hires us to do and then we somebody hires us to do and then we somebody hires us to do and then we create the curriculum for the coaches. create the curriculum for the coaches. create the curriculum for the coaches. Uh we get them their accreditations, we Uh we get them their accreditations, we Uh we get them their accreditations, we get them their background checks, and get them their background checks, and get them their background checks, and then we provide the support staff to go then we provide the support staff to go then we provide the support staff to go to those those camps. Um and then it to those those camps. Um and then it to those those camps. Um and then it also blends in with other businesses and also blends in with other businesses and also blends in with other businesses and things of that nature. things of that nature. things of that nature. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That's wonderful. That's wonderful. That's wonderful. Yeah, because I mean, you know, soccer Yeah, because I mean, you know, soccer Yeah, because I mean, you know, soccer is such an important sport in our is such an important sport in our is such an important sport in our community. And how like over the years community. And how like over the years community. And how like over the years as you know, from from the time that you as you know, from from the time that you as you know, from from the time that you were coaching at the schools to then were coaching at the schools to then were coaching at the schools to then uh starting your own your own venture, uh starting your own your own venture, uh starting your own your own venture, how have you seen the growth of youth how have you seen the growth of youth how have you seen the growth of youth soccer here in Houston?

soccer here in Houston? soccer here in Houston? >> [snorts] >> [snorts] >> [snorts] >> Oh, [clears throat] it's been it's just >> Oh, [clears throat] it's been it's just >> Oh, [clears throat] it's been it's just such a crazy growth that um I mean, it's such a crazy growth that um I mean, it's such a crazy growth that um I mean, it's it's anticipated um you know, being our it's anticipated um you know, being our it's anticipated um you know, being our demographics what they are. However, demographics what they are. However, demographics what they are. However, um um um the city kind of allowing the city kind of allowing the city kind of allowing different parks to be open more. different parks to be open more. different parks to be open more. Um when I first got into youth soccer, Um when I first got into youth soccer, Um when I first got into youth soccer, it was very uh monopoly of this club is it was very uh monopoly of this club is it was very uh monopoly of this club is in these fields, these clubs are in in these fields, these clubs are in in these fields, these clubs are in these fields, and nobody was really able these fields, and nobody was really able these fields, and nobody was really able to figure out what you needed to do. to figure out what you needed to do. to figure out what you needed to do. So early on I So early on I So early on I being, you know, you know, uh you're being, you know, you know, uh you're being, you know, you know, uh you're always your parents' first advocate, always your parents' first advocate, always your parents' first advocate, right? Like, you know, you need to right? Like, you know, you need to right? Like, you know, you need to translate this document or you need to translate this document or you need to translate this document or you need to do this. That was always I'm always big do this. That was always I'm always big do this. That was always I'm always big on learning, and I'm I learned in on learning, and I'm I learned in on learning, and I'm I learned in business school like never be ashamed or business school like never be ashamed or business school like never be ashamed or feel like the dumbest person in the room feel like the dumbest person in the room feel like the dumbest person in the room or the the less successful person in the or the the less successful person in the or the the less successful person in the room cuz you're going to learn from room cuz you're going to learn from room cuz you're going to learn from that. So I always that. So I always that. So I always felt like, you know, there's a reason felt like, you know, there's a reason felt like, you know, there's a reason why I'm going to go find out how to do why I'm going to go find out how to do why I'm going to go find out how to do this. And then once you start figuring this. And then once you start figuring this. And then once you start figuring out different things around or or what out different things around or or what out different things around or or what the how the politics of it works and the how the politics of it works and the how the politics of it works and what you need to do, then it opens up so what you need to do, then it opens up so what you need to do, then it opens up so many fields, so many opportunities. And many fields, so many opportunities. And many fields, so many opportunities. And um now you see all these parks that are um now you see all these parks that are um now you see all these parks that are open and it's it's for me it's wonderful open and it's it's for me it's wonderful open and it's it's for me it's wonderful seeing kids out there playing and seeing kids out there playing and seeing kids out there playing and enjoying the fields. Um enjoying the fields. Um enjoying the fields. Um you see them just 24/7, even though it's you see them just 24/7, even though it's you see them just 24/7, even though it's extremely hot here. Uh however, extremely hot here. Uh however, extremely hot here. Uh however, >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> um >> um >> um you want to be able to you want to be able to you want to be able to to um give that to the kids. I feel like to um give that to the kids. I feel like to um give that to the kids. I feel like that's that's what we're here for, to be that's that's what we're here for, to be that's that's what we're here for, to be able to to give that opportunity to able to to give that opportunity to able to to give that opportunity to those to those kids that are coming up.

those to those kids that are coming up. those to those kids that are coming up. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah, I know, it's true. I Yeah, I know, it's true. I Yeah, I know, it's true. I I still can't believe that kids are out I still can't believe that kids are out I still can't believe that kids are out there. And I and I try to remember, you there. And I and I try to remember, you there. And I and I try to remember, you know, my youth, but know, my youth, but know, my youth, but I don't remember it being that hot. I don't remember it being that hot. I don't remember it being that hot. >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> Um Yeah, to see them playing, you know, >> Um Yeah, to see them playing, you know, >> Um Yeah, to see them playing, you know, during especially like noon, I'm like, during especially like noon, I'm like, during especially like noon, I'm like, "Oh, wow." Those those noon games, those "Oh, wow." Those those noon games, those "Oh, wow." Those those noon games, those those are killer. those are killer. those are killer. >> Yes. [laughter] >> Yes. [laughter] >> Yes. [laughter] >> But wow. So, um you know, this summer >> But wow. So, um you know, this summer >> But wow. So, um you know, this summer there was we had the big game, right? We there was we had the big game, right? We there was we had the big game, right? We had a lot happening here in Houston, and had a lot happening here in Houston, and had a lot happening here in Houston, and one of the things that has come out of one of the things that has come out of one of the things that has come out of that is the legacy project um where they that is the legacy project um where they that is the legacy project um where they are opening up or they're at least are opening up or they're at least are opening up or they're at least fixing a lot of the fixing a lot of the fixing a lot of the um the green spaces here in Houston. um the green spaces here in Houston. um the green spaces here in Houston. Do you think that we need more? Like Do you think that we need more? Like Do you think that we need more? Like because and and because and and because and and and I will say this, I personally do, and I will say this, I personally do, and I will say this, I personally do, right? Because um right? Because um right? Because um this is such a big city and and they're this is such a big city and and they're this is such a big city and and they're still still still I've seen so many parents and kids that I've seen so many parents and kids that I've seen so many parents and kids that haven't even been exposed to the sport.

haven't even been exposed to the sport. haven't even been exposed to the sport. Um but a lot of times it's also because, Um but a lot of times it's also because, Um but a lot of times it's also because, you know, they just don't have green you know, they just don't have green you know, they just don't have green spaces close to them. But do you think spaces close to them. But do you think spaces close to them. But do you think that there's um that there's um that there's um there there is a need or would you even there there is a need or would you even there there is a need or would you even say like oh maybe in this part of town say like oh maybe in this part of town say like oh maybe in this part of town there would there's an opportunity to do there would there's an opportunity to do there would there's an opportunity to do more um as far as like having green more um as far as like having green more um as far as like having green spaces or spaces for for kids to to spaces or spaces for for kids to to spaces or spaces for for kids to to play? play? play? >> I um I agree that we should be able to >> I um I agree that we should be able to >> I um I agree that we should be able to have more green space. I also feel like have more green space. I also feel like have more green space. I also feel like we should be able to go back to how we we should be able to go back to how we we should be able to go back to how we were uh well at least in my time when I were uh well at least in my time when I were uh well at least in my time when I was in school. Um was in school. Um was in school. Um my first exposure to sports was through my first exposure to sports was through my first exposure to sports was through elementary school, right? So my coach in elementary school, right? So my coach in elementary school, right? So my coach in uh elementary school uh elementary school uh elementary school they had us running cross country track they had us running cross country track they had us running cross country track as elementary school, soccer when we as elementary school, soccer when we as elementary school, soccer when we played against other schools and you got played against other schools and you got played against other schools and you got to see other areas of town. to see other areas of town. to see other areas of town. Um and I feel like that's a lacking Um and I feel like that's a lacking Um and I feel like that's a lacking right now. right now. right now. Um I know I know a lot of coaches that Um I know I know a lot of coaches that Um I know I know a lot of coaches that are trying to work on that. Um like are trying to work on that. Um like are trying to work on that. Um like coach Vincenzo Cox at Alief starting his coach Vincenzo Cox at Alief starting his coach Vincenzo Cox at Alief starting his own um futsal academy with the own um futsal academy with the own um futsal academy with the elementary schools and in the elementary schools and in the elementary schools and in the intermediate schools where intermediate schools where intermediate schools where you know, that that's what I grew up you know, that that's what I grew up you know, that that's what I grew up doing, right? Like you get exposure to doing, right? Like you get exposure to doing, right? Like you get exposure to different things and you get to play and different things and you get to play and different things and you get to play and and see the world. Other parents don't and see the world. Other parents don't and see the world. Other parents don't have the opportunity to do it after have the opportunity to do it after have the opportunity to do it after school school school um or they don't have the funds to be um or they don't have the funds to be um or they don't have the funds to be able to put them in a club. That's all able to put them in a club. That's all able to put them in a club. That's all they have and that's that's all they they have and that's that's all they they have and that's that's all they need sometimes and um you know, that can need sometimes and um you know, that can need sometimes and um you know, that can help impact at a young age and I think help impact at a young age and I think help impact at a young age and I think that's if we do the combination of both, that's if we do the combination of both, that's if we do the combination of both, you know, open up fields, open up this, you know, open up fields, open up this, you know, open up fields, open up this, open up that but also open up that but also open up that but also um these schools be able to offer that.

um these schools be able to offer that. um these schools be able to offer that. Um it'll be just be Um it'll be just be Um it'll be just be way more impactful. way more impactful. way more impactful. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Now, I had heard about that in Alief and Now, I had heard about that in Alief and Now, I had heard about that in Alief and it's under very interesting because it's under very interesting because it's under very interesting because um I think that they also use the gym um I think that they also use the gym um I think that they also use the gym like for days when it was too hot. And I like for days when it was too hot. And I like for days when it was too hot. And I was like, "Oh, I love that. I love that, was like, "Oh, I love that. I love that, was like, "Oh, I love that. I love that, you know, they that he was able to gain you know, they that he was able to gain you know, they that he was able to gain that access and, you know, provide that that access and, you know, provide that that access and, you know, provide that for the kids." So, no, you're right. We for the kids." So, no, you're right. We for the kids." So, no, you're right. We there's there's definitely an there's there's definitely an there's there's definitely an opportunity to find more ways of doing opportunity to find more ways of doing opportunity to find more ways of doing those partnerships. Um those partnerships. Um those partnerships. Um you know, in opening up those spaces in you know, in opening up those spaces in you know, in opening up those spaces in schools. schools. schools. >> For sure. >> For sure. >> For sure. >> Mhm. All right, so we need to start >> Mhm. All right, so we need to start >> Mhm. All right, so we need to start advocating for that. advocating for that. advocating for that. >> Yes. [laughter] >> Yes. [laughter] >> Yes. [laughter] >> We really do. We really really do. So, >> We really do. We really really do. So, >> We really do. We really really do. So, where do you see youths youth sports where do you see youths youth sports where do you see youths youth sports youth soccer going? Um especially after youth soccer going? Um especially after youth soccer going? Um especially after this this this very eventful summer. very eventful summer. very eventful summer. >> Uh the hope is for youth soccer to get >> Uh the hope is for youth soccer to get >> Uh the hope is for youth soccer to get to a point where to a point where to a point where um um um it's free for the kids to partic- it's free for the kids to partic- it's free for the kids to partic- partake in it. Um but there's so much partake in it. Um but there's so much partake in it. Um but there's so much exposure to it by that time that I feel exposure to it by that time that I feel exposure to it by that time that I feel like um all the clubs are already not like um all the clubs are already not like um all the clubs are already not free or are affordable in a way where I free or are affordable in a way where I free or are affordable in a way where I see a lot of academies now coming in see a lot of academies now coming in see a lot of academies now coming in into the state or into the city and into the state or into the city and into the state or into the city and offering offering offering great facilities, great facilities, great facilities, great coaching, great curriculum, great coaching, great curriculum, great coaching, great curriculum, um but also at a affordable rate, right?

um but also at a affordable rate, right? um but also at a affordable rate, right? I also see some academies that are like, I also see some academies that are like, I also see some academies that are like, "You're paying how much?" Like "You're paying how much?" Like "You're paying how much?" Like >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Like that's that's a lot. That's >> Like that's that's a lot. That's >> Like that's that's a lot. That's astronomical amounts of um to be able to astronomical amounts of um to be able to astronomical amounts of um to be able to play for a 7-year-old, you know? play for a 7-year-old, you know? play for a 7-year-old, you know? Um Um Um and and and and I feel like that's that's how we're and I feel like that's that's how we're and I feel like that's that's how we're changing. I think we have to change to changing. I think we have to change to changing. I think we have to change to that way to that route where that way to that route where that way to that route where um you know, it's not going to um you know, it's not going to um you know, it's not going to you're not going to have to make a you're not going to have to make a you're not going to have to make a decision where like where am I going to decision where like where am I going to decision where like where am I going to sign my my daughter or my son up for sign my my daughter or my son up for sign my my daughter or my son up for youth soccer, however, youth soccer, however, youth soccer, however, I won't be able to purchase this. I won't be able to purchase this. I won't be able to purchase this. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Um and then >> Um and then >> Um and then but I can do it I can do both, right? but I can do it I can do both, right? but I can do it I can do both, right? So, I feel like that's where we're So, I feel like that's where we're So, I feel like that's where we're turning to and I they'll I that's my my turning to and I they'll I that's my my turning to and I they'll I that's my my hope and my my prayers every night is hope and my my prayers every night is hope and my my prayers every night is that it becomes that where um everybody that it becomes that where um everybody that it becomes that where um everybody can have access to it, you know, cuz can have access to it, you know, cuz can have access to it, you know, cuz growing up we play soccer because it's a growing up we play soccer because it's a growing up we play soccer because it's a soccer ball and you can get with 10 soccer ball and you can get with 10 soccer ball and you can get with 10 friends and that's it and you can play friends and that's it and you can play friends and that's it and you can play all night. all night. all night. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Um, and but then once it comes to the >> Um, and but then once it comes to the >> Um, and but then once it comes to the the business part of it, you kind of the business part of it, you kind of the business part of it, you kind of understand that as well, but understand that as well, but understand that as well, but um, I see some visionaries coming in um, I see some visionaries coming in um, I see some visionaries coming in into that where um, corporates are into that where um, corporates are into that where um, corporates are coming and becoming involved and and and coming and becoming involved and and and coming and becoming involved and and and trying to help with that and I I hope trying to help with that and I I hope trying to help with that and I I hope that's that's what we see in the next that's that's what we see in the next that's that's what we see in the next coming years.

coming years. coming years. >> Yeah. Well, and I mean that's been a >> Yeah. Well, and I mean that's been a >> Yeah. Well, and I mean that's been a very big point of discussion. Um, and very big point of discussion. Um, and very big point of discussion. Um, and and I I've seen it a lot, especially and I I've seen it a lot, especially and I I've seen it a lot, especially online where you hear, you know, like online where you hear, you know, like online where you hear, you know, like the Landon Donovans, um, the um, the Landon Donovans, um, the um, the Landon Donovans, um, the um, oh my gosh, what is his name from oh my gosh, what is his name from oh my gosh, what is his name from Nacogdoches? Nacogdoches? Nacogdoches? >> Um, you are referring to Mr. >> Um, you are referring to Mr. >> Um, you are referring to Mr. Um, Um, Um, >> I can't remember. >> I can't remember. >> I can't remember. >> Clint Dempsey. Dempsey. >> Clint Dempsey. Dempsey. >> Clint Dempsey. Dempsey. >> Yes. You know, where they have been >> Yes. You know, where they have been >> Yes. You know, where they have been advocating for more grassroots soccer advocating for more grassroots soccer advocating for more grassroots soccer that's affordable for kids because, you that's affordable for kids because, you that's affordable for kids because, you know, that that's how they know, that that's how they know, that that's how they >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> kind of went into the pipeline. So, no, >> kind of went into the pipeline. So, no, >> kind of went into the pipeline. So, no, you're right. And so, so tell us a you're right. And so, so tell us a you're right. And so, so tell us a little bit about, um, you know, where little bit about, um, you know, where little bit about, um, you know, where where your business is at, right? What where your business is at, right? What where your business is at, right? What are your What do you offer and are your What do you offer and are your What do you offer and um, and what do you have coming up? um, and what do you have coming up? um, and what do you have coming up? >> Well, um, co-founder along with my wife >> Well, um, co-founder along with my wife >> Well, um, co-founder along with my wife with uh, Katy Athletic and also uh, Nami with uh, Katy Athletic and also uh, Nami with uh, Katy Athletic and also uh, Nami Insurance Group. Um, our insurance Insurance Group. Um, our insurance Insurance Group. Um, our insurance brokerage, um, we focus up primarily on brokerage, um, we focus up primarily on brokerage, um, we focus up primarily on commercial side of it and that opens up commercial side of it and that opens up commercial side of it and that opens up so many opportunities when it comes to so many opportunities when it comes to so many opportunities when it comes to just in soccer, right?

just in soccer, right? just in soccer, right? Um, and with Katy Athletic we try to Um, and with Katy Athletic we try to Um, and with Katy Athletic we try to focus on just focus on just focus on just creating every person that we that we creating every person that we that we creating every person that we that we see or that comes to our doors or that see or that comes to our doors or that see or that comes to our doors or that we talk to, we talk to, we talk to, um, by the end of the day or the end of um, by the end of the day or the end of um, by the end of the day or the end of whatever scenario or business that we whatever scenario or business that we whatever scenario or business that we have going along, that uh, that person have going along, that uh, that person have going along, that uh, that person grows, um, or or that person becomes uh, grows, um, or or that person becomes uh, grows, um, or or that person becomes uh, a better part of themself or or or we a better part of themself or or or we a better part of themself or or or we learn from them as well, right? We can't learn from them as well, right? We can't learn from them as well, right? We can't stop learning at that end. So, stop learning at that end. So, stop learning at that end. So, um, um, um, I try to take in both on both aspects I try to take in both on both aspects I try to take in both on both aspects both aspects of business both aspects of business both aspects of business every opportunity I have to talk to every opportunity I have to talk to every opportunity I have to talk to somebody, it's a a learning experience somebody, it's a a learning experience somebody, it's a a learning experience or educational. We get some education or educational. We get some education or educational. We get some education from it. Either I from it. Either I from it. Either I teach the or educate the client on teach the or educate the client on teach the or educate the client on something or I learn something from something or I learn something from something or I learn something from them. them. them. >> Yeah, that's very cool. And so >> Yeah, that's very cool. And so >> Yeah, that's very cool. And so off camera we were talking about some of off camera we were talking about some of off camera we were talking about some of the other projects that you have also the other projects that you have also the other projects that you have also been involved in. been involved in. been involved in. And I just want to learn a little bit And I just want to learn a little bit And I just want to learn a little bit more about them because when you more about them because when you more about them because when you mentioned, you know, the beach soccer mentioned, you know, the beach soccer mentioned, you know, the beach soccer I've I've seen I've I've seen I've I've seen information about it online and stuff information about it online and stuff information about it online and stuff and I haven't made it down to Galveston, and I haven't made it down to Galveston, and I haven't made it down to Galveston, but I thought that is really cool. I but I thought that is really cool. I but I thought that is really cool. I love that first of all, I love the fact love that first of all, I love the fact love that first of all, I love the fact that we have that here here in in that we have that here here in in that we have that here here in in Galveston.

Galveston. Galveston. But then also the fact that you were But then also the fact that you were But then also the fact that you were involved. So tell us a little bit about involved. So tell us a little bit about involved. So tell us a little bit about how you got involved and and where where how you got involved and and where where how you got involved and and where where that started as well. that started as well. that started as well. >> I think 7 years ago I >> I think 7 years ago I >> I think 7 years ago I when I was when my mentor Juan Carlos when I was when my mentor Juan Carlos when I was when my mentor Juan Carlos Ruiz, he used to be a a Nike coach. And Ruiz, he used to be a a Nike coach. And Ruiz, he used to be a a Nike coach. And I used to help him with the soccer I used to help him with the soccer I used to help him with the soccer camps. camps. camps. They're the same company that also does They're the same company that also does They're the same company that also does the beach camps. And the beach camps. And the beach camps. And one day they asked me, "Hey, can you one day they asked me, "Hey, can you one day they asked me, "Hey, can you come help on on the beach camp?" And it come help on on the beach camp?" And it come help on on the beach camp?" And it was like was like was like something where it's I think it's like something where it's I think it's like something where it's I think it's like we have there's like 30 fields out there we have there's like 30 fields out there we have there's like 30 fields out there on East End Beach in Galveston. on East End Beach in Galveston. on East End Beach in Galveston. And it was something as simple as going And it was something as simple as going And it was something as simple as going to get the scores and making sure the to get the scores and making sure the to get the scores and making sure the referees were on time, making sure the referees were on time, making sure the referees were on time, making sure the teams knew the scores and everything teams knew the scores and everything teams knew the scores and everything like that going on. And it evolved over like that going on. And it evolved over like that going on. And it evolved over time where like you know, I've taken time where like you know, I've taken time where like you know, I've taken over that over that over that and help run those camps and also the and help run those camps and also the and help run those camps and also the tournaments where now I come in and I tournaments where now I come in and I tournaments where now I come in and I bring some of my coaching staff on here bring some of my coaching staff on here bring some of my coaching staff on here and we try to make sure that at the end and we try to make sure that at the end and we try to make sure that at the end of the day the kids are having a good of the day the kids are having a good of the day the kids are having a good time. Because time. Because time. Because altercations happen, right? You're altercations happen, right? You're altercations happen, right? You're you're heated, it's hot. However, at the you're heated, it's hot. However, at the you're heated, it's hot. However, at the end of the day I always I always tell my end of the day I always I always tell my end of the day I always I always tell my parents I'm involved, "Turn around. Your parents I'm involved, "Turn around. Your parents I'm involved, "Turn around. Your kids are playing in the beach. Like this kids are playing in the beach. Like this kids are playing in the beach. Like this is what it's it's right? Like whatever is what it's it's right? Like whatever is what it's it's right? Like whatever we do here, they're going to see it and we do here, they're going to see it and we do here, they're going to see it and we want to be able to make sure they we want to be able to make sure they we want to be able to make sure they have a good experience. So, that's have a good experience. So, that's have a good experience. So, that's that's always been the the mindset the that's always been the the mindset the that's always been the the mindset the last couple of years whenever I last couple of years whenever I last couple of years whenever I been involved in it where the kids have been involved in it where the kids have been involved in it where the kids have a great experience and and have that in a great experience and and have that in a great experience and and have that in their mind like, "Man, I get My parents their mind like, "Man, I get My parents their mind like, "Man, I get My parents took me." Cuz some of them come over took me." Cuz some of them come over took me." Cuz some of them come over from El Paso, they come over from from El Paso, they come over from from El Paso, they come over from Dallas, they stay overnight,

Dallas, they stay overnight, Dallas, they stay overnight, they stay at the beach. They provide they stay at the beach. They provide they stay at the beach. They provide business to the the seawall and all business to the the seawall and all business to the the seawall and all these different things that they do. these different things that they do. these different things that they do. Um and and you want to make sure that, Um and and you want to make sure that, Um and and you want to make sure that, you know, they they understand what the you know, they they understand what the you know, they they understand what the sacrifices the parents are doing to get sacrifices the parents are doing to get sacrifices the parents are doing to get them there and then also have a great them there and then also have a great them there and then also have a great experience and then remember that experience and then remember that experience and then remember that you know, it's my parents took me to you know, it's my parents took me to you know, it's my parents took me to this and it was great. We had a good this and it was great. We had a good this and it was great. We had a good time. We Who cares who cares who won, time. We Who cares who cares who won, time. We Who cares who cares who won, but I was out there and, you know, it's but I was out there and, you know, it's but I was out there and, you know, it's they're out there for 3 hours a day and they're out there for 3 hours a day and they're out there for 3 hours a day and then then then we try to make the schedule where like we try to make the schedule where like we try to make the schedule where like either you come in the morning and then either you come in the morning and then either you come in the morning and then you're done by the evening time or you you're done by the evening time or you you're done by the evening time or you come in evening time so you can enjoy come in evening time so you can enjoy come in evening time so you can enjoy the morning. the morning. the morning. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Cuz at the end of the day, it's it's >> Cuz at the end of the day, it's it's >> Cuz at the end of the day, it's it's supposed to be something that the kids supposed to be something that the kids supposed to be something that the kids remember as a as a good experience. remember as a as a good experience. remember as a as a good experience. >> Yeah, I know. That sounds like fun. So, >> Yeah, I know. That sounds like fun. So, >> Yeah, I know. That sounds like fun. So, so what's better, beach soccer or so what's better, beach soccer or so what's better, beach soccer or regular soccer on grass? regular soccer on grass? regular soccer on grass? >> I I'm I'm I'm me I'm grass is is is what >> I I'm I'm I'm me I'm grass is is is what >> I I'm I'm I'm me I'm grass is is is what it is. Not turf, grass. I love the it is. Not turf, grass. I love the it is. Not turf, grass. I love the grass, [laughter] you know, like nothing grass, [laughter] you know, like nothing grass, [laughter] you know, like nothing beats fresh cut grass smell in the beats fresh cut grass smell in the beats fresh cut grass smell in the morning, right? Um morning, right? Um morning, right? Um and and when the water the sprinklers and and when the water the sprinklers and and when the water the sprinklers are on and all that, um are on and all that, um are on and all that, um it's the best the best feeling in my it's the best the best feeling in my it's the best the best feeling in my opinion.

opinion. opinion. >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> Although, I still You know what? I >> Although, I still You know what? I >> Although, I still You know what? I haven't played beach soccer, so I don't haven't played beach soccer, so I don't haven't played beach soccer, so I don't know. Like, maybe next time Next time know. Like, maybe next time Next time know. Like, maybe next time Next time I'm in El Salvador, go go out to the I'm in El Salvador, go go out to the I'm in El Salvador, go go out to the beach and do that. beach and do that. beach and do that. >> Yeah, yeah, it dominates. Absolutely >> Yeah, yeah, it dominates. Absolutely >> Yeah, yeah, it dominates. Absolutely dominates. But, the beaches are are dominates. But, the beaches are are dominates. But, the beaches are are are are very different are are very different are are very different than than here, but you see it out than than here, but you see it out than than here, but you see it out there. You see which is what I told you there. You see which is what I told you there. You see which is what I told you earlier. It's like I I haven't seen that earlier. It's like I I haven't seen that earlier. It's like I I haven't seen that before when I went to before when I went to before when I went to on my dad's side, you see it everywhere. on my dad's side, you see it everywhere. on my dad's side, you see it everywhere. Like, Like, Like, just put two And that's what we did just put two And that's what we did just put two And that's what we did growing up, you know, put somebody's growing up, you know, put somebody's growing up, you know, put somebody's shoe here, somebody's shoe there and you shoe here, somebody's shoe there and you shoe here, somebody's shoe there and you go here, you go there, you go here and go here, you go there, you go here and go here, you go there, you go here and let's go, let's play. And that's what let's go, let's play. And that's what let's go, let's play. And that's what they do and it's it's amazing to watch. they do and it's it's amazing to watch. they do and it's it's amazing to watch. >> It's so easy. >> It's so easy. >> It's so easy. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> It's so easy. I mean, this is why soccer >> It's so easy. I mean, this is why soccer >> It's so easy. I mean, this is why soccer football is the world's sport because football is the world's sport because football is the world's sport because you truly only need a ball or some sort you truly only need a ball or some sort you truly only need a ball or some sort of round something, right? Cuz I mean, of round something, right? Cuz I mean, of round something, right? Cuz I mean, even even that. even even that. even even that. Um Um Um and then find una piedrita, a little and then find una piedrita, a little and then find una piedrita, a little rock, whatever, it doesn't matter what. rock, whatever, it doesn't matter what. rock, whatever, it doesn't matter what. Just to make your your goals. So. Just to make your your goals. So. Just to make your your goals. So. >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> Yeah, no. Um and so >> Yeah, no. Um and so >> Yeah, no. Um and so so I guess kind of now going a little so I guess kind of now going a little so I guess kind of now going a little bit into um you know, El Salvador and bit into um you know, El Salvador and bit into um you know, El Salvador and and all of that. Do you um do you follow and all of that. Do you um do you follow and all of that. Do you um do you follow any of the of the teams?

any of the of the teams? any of the of the teams? >> Um my dad's growing up our our team >> Um my dad's growing up our our team >> Um my dad's growing up our our team names always is Limeño. names always is Limeño. names always is Limeño. Um Um Um that's, you know, we my dad made us that's, you know, we my dad made us that's, you know, we my dad made us bleed blue and yellow. Every single team bleed blue and yellow. Every single team bleed blue and yellow. Every single team that he made we were Limeño. All my that he made we were Limeño. All my that he made we were Limeño. All my friends that know that we were always friends that know that we were always friends that know that we were always Limeño. Um so Limeño. Um so Limeño. Um so that's what we follow. that's what we follow. that's what we follow. Um and then just kind of getting to see Um and then just kind of getting to see Um and then just kind of getting to see like my dad always like my dad always like my dad always giving back to his community. He was the giving back to his community. He was the giving back to his community. He was the one that would always, you know, send one that would always, you know, send one that would always, you know, send him a pair of cleats to the players or him a pair of cleats to the players or him a pair of cleats to the players or when they come in town they hang out when they come in town they hang out when they come in town they hang out with my dad cuz they're from the same with my dad cuz they're from the same with my dad cuz they're from the same little neighborhood. little neighborhood. little neighborhood. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Um that's what we followed growing up. >> Um that's what we followed growing up. >> Um that's what we followed growing up. And but of course um And but of course um And but of course um you know, also being true Salvadoran you know, also being true Salvadoran you know, also being true Salvadoran Real Madrid fan, you know, growing up. Real Madrid fan, you know, growing up. Real Madrid fan, you know, growing up. >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> Um and América fans growing up cuz >> Um and América fans growing up cuz >> Um and América fans growing up cuz that's what my dad went for and uh that's what my dad went for and uh that's what my dad went for and uh I tried I tried I tried >> América de México okay. >> América de México okay. >> América de México okay. >> Um so it was it was always that, you >> Um so it was it was always that, you >> Um so it was it was always that, you know. know. know. Um and then anything else like Um and then anything else like Um and then anything else like can't do that because that's who my dad can't do that because that's who my dad can't do that because that's who my dad went for. But went for. But went for. But um um um that's what we followed growing up is that's what we followed growing up is that's what we followed growing up is Municipal Limeño. Municipal Limeño. Municipal Limeño. >> Okay, very cool. Yeah, I don't think >> Okay, very cool. Yeah, I don't think >> Okay, very cool. Yeah, I don't think they've made it into the Central they've made it into the Central they've made it into the Central American Cup. And then I know that American Cup. And then I know that American Cup. And then I know that started yesterday. So I think it's Firpo started yesterday. So I think it's Firpo started yesterday. So I think it's Firpo and FAS.

and FAS. and FAS. >> Yeah, I think they're having a Caribbean >> Yeah, I think they're having a Caribbean >> Yeah, I think they're having a Caribbean Cup right now. They get to go play in Cup right now. They get to go play in Cup right now. They get to go play in >> Oh, that's what it is. Yeah, the yeah, >> Oh, that's what it is. Yeah, the yeah, >> Oh, that's what it is. Yeah, the yeah, yeah. So, yeah. So, yeah. So, well, maybe maybe next time. well, maybe maybe next time. well, maybe maybe next time. >> My mom my mom liked the >> My mom my mom liked the >> My mom my mom liked the Aguilas Aguilas Aguilas the San Miguel, but my dad never let us the San Miguel, but my dad never let us the San Miguel, but my dad never let us he never even bought a a shirt for us. he never even bought a a shirt for us. he never even bought a a shirt for us. Like we would have even my daughters Like we would have even my daughters Like we would have even my daughters like they have the menu stuff and the like they have the menu stuff and the like they have the menu stuff and the all the uniforms. Never. So, we always all the uniforms. Never. So, we always all the uniforms. Never. So, we always had that like growing up like you're not had that like growing up like you're not had that like growing up like you're not going to you're not going to go for going to you're not going to go for going to you're not going to go for them. You're going to go for the menu. them. You're going to go for the menu. them. You're going to go for the menu. That's what we did. That's what we did. That's what we did. >> Yeah. Wow. Okay, no, that is that is >> Yeah. Wow. Okay, no, that is that is >> Yeah. Wow. Okay, no, that is that is very interesting. Because I mean I know very interesting. Because I mean I know very interesting. Because I mean I know Los Aguiluchos they are hardcore. Los Aguiluchos they are hardcore. Los Aguiluchos they are hardcore. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Okay, wow. >> Okay, wow. >> Okay, wow. Um well, and another thing we talked Um well, and another thing we talked Um well, and another thing we talked about off camera and I kind of want to about off camera and I kind of want to about off camera and I kind of want to get your your thoughts on this. Um women get your your thoughts on this. Um women get your your thoughts on this. Um women soccer and specifically about El soccer and specifically about El soccer and specifically about El Salvador. But what what do you think or Salvador. But what what do you think or Salvador. But what what do you think or how do you see next year's uh World Cup how do you see next year's uh World Cup how do you see next year's uh World Cup panning out for not only the United panning out for not only the United panning out for not only the United States national team, but also for the States national team, but also for the States national team, but also for the Salvadoran national team? Salvadoran national team? Salvadoran national team? >> [clears throat] >> [clears throat] >> [clears throat] >> Um I see them qualifying and making it >> Um I see them qualifying and making it >> Um I see them qualifying and making it to Brazil.

to Brazil. to Brazil. Um I told my daughter my 10-year-old Um I told my daughter my 10-year-old Um I told my daughter my 10-year-old daughter I was like we're going to go to daughter I was like we're going to go to daughter I was like we're going to go to Brazil you're going to be able to watch Brazil you're going to be able to watch Brazil you're going to be able to watch USA, Mexico, and El Salvador and cheer USA, Mexico, and El Salvador and cheer USA, Mexico, and El Salvador and cheer for whoever you want. for whoever you want. for whoever you want. Um Um Um and I see it that like I mentioned and I see it that like I mentioned and I see it that like I mentioned earlier that they're doing it the right earlier that they're doing it the right earlier that they're doing it the right way. way. way. Um with I think you have to Um with I think you have to Um with I think you have to find somebody who has the passion for find somebody who has the passion for find somebody who has the passion for the the the not just necessarily the the the the not just necessarily the the the the not just necessarily the support, but the team and the well-being support, but the team and the well-being support, but the team and the well-being of the team. of the team. of the team. And I see that in there and um And I see that in there and um And I see that in there and um and then also got great talent um there and then also got great talent um there and then also got great talent um there in there. in there. in there. And you know, your roots are always your And you know, your roots are always your And you know, your roots are always your roots and it and also has to do with it roots and it and also has to do with it roots and it and also has to do with it kind of comes into where kind of comes into where kind of comes into where the US soccer um like I mentioned the US soccer um like I mentioned the US soccer um like I mentioned earlier is so expensive in some certain earlier is so expensive in some certain earlier is so expensive in some certain ways where it kind of opens that door ways where it kind of opens that door ways where it kind of opens that door and you know, we're able to jump on it and you know, we're able to jump on it and you know, we're able to jump on it and get those players that have the dual and get those players that have the dual and get those players that have the dual citizenship to come in and be like, you citizenship to come in and be like, you citizenship to come in and be like, you know, come play over here instead and know, come play over here instead and know, come play over here instead and and and and you still be able to have and and and you still be able to have and and and you still be able to have some great talent or great develop your some great talent or great develop your some great talent or great develop your talent. And the way that he's doing it, talent. And the way that he's doing it, talent. And the way that he's doing it, where he's where he's where he's sending them out to export them out, go sending them out to export them out, go sending them out to export them out, go play wherever play wherever play wherever you can as long as you get the you can as long as you get the you can as long as you get the experience, I think that's wonderful to experience, I think that's wonderful to experience, I think that's wonderful to see.

see. see. >> Yeah. Well, and then some of the talent >> Yeah. Well, and then some of the talent >> Yeah. Well, and then some of the talent is actually from Houston. is actually from Houston. is actually from Houston. So, that that is great. I mean, and that So, that that is great. I mean, and that So, that that is great. I mean, and that just again, it just goes back to show just again, it just goes back to show just again, it just goes back to show the amount of talent that we have here, the amount of talent that we have here, the amount of talent that we have here, you know, like from a and and why it's you know, like from a and and why it's you know, like from a and and why it's so important to really build up the so important to really build up the so important to really build up the youth youth youth um the the youth ecosystem so that they um the the youth ecosystem so that they um the the youth ecosystem so that they are not only, you know, getting the are not only, you know, getting the are not only, you know, getting the experience and and learning, but they experience and and learning, but they experience and and learning, but they continue to keep that joy. Because I continue to keep that joy. Because I continue to keep that joy. Because I think that one of the things that I think that one of the things that I think that one of the things that I continue to see, especially just kind of continue to see, especially just kind of continue to see, especially just kind of dabbling, right? Cuz I can't say that dabbling, right? Cuz I can't say that dabbling, right? Cuz I can't say that I'm full into I'm full into I'm full into youth soccer or youth sports, is the youth soccer or youth sports, is the youth soccer or youth sports, is the fact that um fact that um fact that um at such a young age, there the at such a young age, there the at such a young age, there the competitiveness of it becomes starts to competitiveness of it becomes starts to competitiveness of it becomes starts to become a burden and a weight for for become a burden and a weight for for become a burden and a weight for for these kids. And and I'm like, but it these kids. And and I'm like, but it these kids. And and I'm like, but it should still be fun. And I can should still be fun. And I can should still be fun. And I can understand, you know, you're going into understand, you know, you're going into understand, you know, you're going into competitive level and and you competitive level and and you competitive level and and you Yes, you want to win. Your coaches want Yes, you want to win. Your coaches want Yes, you want to win. Your coaches want to win. Your parents want to win.

to win. Your parents want to win. to win. Your parents want to win. But that's not it. That's not all. And But that's not it. That's not all. And But that's not it. That's not all. And so, so, so, I love the fact that there's still I love the fact that there's still I love the fact that there's still a lot of individuals in the space that a lot of individuals in the space that a lot of individuals in the space that are making sure that the environment is are making sure that the environment is are making sure that the environment is there, that it's safe, that it's fun, there, that it's safe, that it's fun, there, that it's safe, that it's fun, and that, you know, and that, you know, and that, you know, they're being given an opportunity to to they're being given an opportunity to to they're being given an opportunity to to learn and to experience and to grow. learn and to experience and to grow. learn and to experience and to grow. >> Of course. >> Of course. >> Of course. >> Yeah. No, I'm I'm glad >> Yeah. No, I'm I'm glad >> Yeah. No, I'm I'm glad to know all of the the great things that to know all of the the great things that to know all of the the great things that that you're doing. And I know that this that you're doing. And I know that this that you're doing. And I know that this summer has been summer has been summer has been I'm I'm sure a long one for you with I'm I'm sure a long one for you with I'm I'm sure a long one for you with everything that just World Cup and all everything that just World Cup and all everything that just World Cup and all all the projects that you've also been all the projects that you've also been all the projects that you've also been been doing. So, how are you preparing been doing. So, how are you preparing been doing. So, how are you preparing for the fall? for the fall? for the fall? >> [clears throat] >> [clears throat] >> [clears throat] >> Well, um, >> Well, um, >> Well, um, club soccer starts next week already. club soccer starts next week already. club soccer starts next week already. Um, back to [clears throat] school Um, back to [clears throat] school Um, back to [clears throat] school starts next week already, so starts next week already, so starts next week already, so I I tell all my parents whenever I talk I I tell all my parents whenever I talk I I tell all my parents whenever I talk to them, even though I'm not coaching to them, even though I'm not coaching to them, even though I'm not coaching their teams anymore, but I'm still part their teams anymore, but I'm still part their teams anymore, but I'm still part of the club soccer, um, just give me 10 of the club soccer, um, just give me 10 of the club soccer, um, just give me 10 weeks of commitment, right? Cuz those 10 weeks of commitment, right? Cuz those 10 weeks of commitment, right? Cuz those 10 weeks um, you know, you you'll have weeks um, you know, you you'll have weeks um, you know, you you'll have eight games in between there. Just give eight games in between there. Just give eight games in between there. Just give me from now until before Thanksgiving me from now until before Thanksgiving me from now until before Thanksgiving comes and um comes and um comes and um getting into practice cuz it's it's as a getting into practice cuz it's it's as a getting into practice cuz it's it's as a kid you don't understand that. Uh, but kid you don't understand that. Uh, but kid you don't understand that. Uh, but the commitment from the parents is is is the commitment from the parents is is is the commitment from the parents is is is amazing. Like we have some um, some amazing. Like we have some um, some amazing. Like we have some um, some parents that I reached out to that um parents that I reached out to that um parents that I reached out to that um have been playing with me forever since have been playing with me forever since have been playing with me forever since their kids are young and we now have a their kids are young and we now have a their kids are young and we now have a couple of years now where my daughter's couple of years now where my daughter's couple of years now where my daughter's team is all girls team. So, being a girl team is all girls team. So, being a girl team is all girls team. So, being a girl dad, I'm a huge believer in women's dad, I'm a huge believer in women's dad, I'm a huge believer in women's sports and growing that avenue and also sports and growing that avenue and also sports and growing that avenue and also finding coaches that

finding coaches that finding coaches that also have the same mindset of well, you also have the same mindset of well, you also have the same mindset of well, you know, they're girls, so they can do the know, they're girls, so they can do the know, they're girls, so they can do the same exact training and they're they're same exact training and they're they're same exact training and they're they're not limited. Um, and also finding great not limited. Um, and also finding great not limited. Um, and also finding great facilities and um, a great league where facilities and um, a great league where facilities and um, a great league where you know, you're going to show up and to you know, you're going to show up and to you know, you're going to show up and to me like as a parent it's like the me like as a parent it's like the me like as a parent it's like the commitment of the parents do cuz you commitment of the parents do cuz you commitment of the parents do cuz you know, you're going to drive on a know, you're going to drive on a know, you're going to drive on a Saturday. Most of the time we play in Saturday. Most of the time we play in Saturday. Most of the time we play in Cypress area or something like that. Cypress area or something like that. Cypress area or something like that. We're going to make sure that the We're going to make sure that the We're going to make sure that the parents parents parents get there and there's a game going on. get there and there's a game going on. get there and there's a game going on. There's referees there. They're playing There's referees there. They're playing There's referees there. They're playing the same kids the same age. Um, so the same kids the same age. Um, so the same kids the same age. Um, so I just tell them, give me those 10 weeks I just tell them, give me those 10 weeks I just tell them, give me those 10 weeks and you know, we'll we'll make once we and you know, we'll we'll make once we and you know, we'll we'll make once we make it through there, we'll get make it through there, we'll get make it through there, we'll get started, we'll rest up, enjoy the started, we'll rest up, enjoy the started, we'll rest up, enjoy the holidays cuz you know, we're big holidays cuz you know, we're big holidays cuz you know, we're big believer on that and then believer on that and then believer on that and then come back again in the spring and and come back again in the spring and and come back again in the spring and and just give me those 10 weeks and that's just give me those 10 weeks and that's just give me those 10 weeks and that's how we're getting ready for that right how we're getting ready for that right how we're getting ready for that right there. there. there. >> Yeah. Oh man. Well, it's going to be >> Yeah. Oh man. Well, it's going to be >> Yeah. Oh man. Well, it's going to be fun. Let's just hope that the weather fun. Let's just hope that the weather fun. Let's just hope that the weather continues to be great and then that way continues to be great and then that way continues to be great and then that way we don't have to we don't have to we don't have to worry about that, but um, I love hearing worry about that, but um, I love hearing worry about that, but um, I love hearing that you have, you know, great parents, that you have, you know, great parents, that you have, you know, great parents, great families that you're working with, great families that you're working with, great families that you're working with, that the kids are also disciplined and that the kids are also disciplined and that the kids are also disciplined and and understand the importance of it and and understand the importance of it and and understand the importance of it and that they're all enjoying you know, with that they're all enjoying you know, with that they're all enjoying you know, with the the sport.

the the sport. the the sport. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> So, that's >> So, that's >> So, that's >> Of course. >> Of course. >> Of course. >> that's really fun. And yeah, no. And so, >> that's really fun. And yeah, no. And so, >> that's really fun. And yeah, no. And so, actually as um actually as um actually as um as we start to to wrap up, I I also I as we start to to wrap up, I I also I as we start to to wrap up, I I also I would like to extend an invitation to would like to extend an invitation to would like to extend an invitation to you. And I'll do this publicly. Um and I you. And I'll do this publicly. Um and I you. And I'll do this publicly. Um and I also want to extend it to everybody out also want to extend it to everybody out also want to extend it to everybody out there. Uh because this fall, you know, there. Uh because this fall, you know, there. Uh because this fall, you know, we're going to have Salvadoran Heritage we're going to have Salvadoran Heritage we're going to have Salvadoran Heritage Night at the Houston Dynamo. And so, Night at the Houston Dynamo. And so, Night at the Houston Dynamo. And so, that's going to be on September 26th. that's going to be on September 26th. that's going to be on September 26th. Um it's going to be fun. Last year we Um it's going to be fun. Last year we Um it's going to be fun. Last year we had about 200 over 200 people show up. had about 200 over 200 people show up. had about 200 over 200 people show up. And so, you know, this year we just we And so, you know, this year we just we And so, you know, this year we just we want to blow it out the water. And um want to blow it out the water. And um want to blow it out the water. And um and so, everybody's invited. And so, and so, everybody's invited. And so, and so, everybody's invited. And so, make sure that you're put adding that make sure that you're put adding that make sure that you're put adding that into your schedule. into your schedule. into your schedule. >> Of >> Of >> Of >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> course, we definitely will be there for >> course, we definitely will be there for >> course, we definitely will be there for sure. sure. sure. >> That you're adding it to your schedule >> That you're adding it to your schedule >> That you're adding it to your schedule and that, you know, we um that we can and that, you know, we um that we can and that, you know, we um that we can have you out there. Um because it's it's have you out there. Um because it's it's have you out there. Um because it's it's really about bringing together the really about bringing together the really about bringing together the community uh around the sport. Um but community uh around the sport. Um but community uh around the sport. Um but then also, you know, really highlighting then also, you know, really highlighting then also, you know, really highlighting our heritage and you know, just knowing our heritage and you know, just knowing our heritage and you know, just knowing hearing about your your family and and hearing about your your family and and hearing about your your family and and how, you know, your uh Salvadoran roots how, you know, your uh Salvadoran roots how, you know, your uh Salvadoran roots have have also been such a a big part of have have also been such a a big part of have have also been such a a big part of um of what you do. Uh we definitely love um of what you do. Uh we definitely love um of what you do. Uh we definitely love to have you out there.

to have you out there. to have you out there. >> Of course, we definitely will be out >> Of course, we definitely will be out >> Of course, we definitely will be out there. So, looking forward to it. there. So, looking forward to it. there. So, looking forward to it. >> Yeah, so it's going to be it's going to >> Yeah, so it's going to be it's going to >> Yeah, so it's going to be it's going to be very fun. But um yeah, I know. I be very fun. But um yeah, I know. I be very fun. But um yeah, I know. I think right now think right now think right now one of the the things is it's incredible one of the the things is it's incredible one of the the things is it's incredible to to know that the summer is ending, to to know that the summer is ending, to to know that the summer is ending, that we're going into fall, and that so that we're going into fall, and that so that we're going into fall, and that so much has happened in one year. much has happened in one year. much has happened in one year. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> I mean, I don't know. >> I mean, I don't know. >> I mean, I don't know. Do you Do you Do you How was your World Cup experience? Do How was your World Cup experience? Do How was your World Cup experience? Do you pinch yourself saying like, "Oh my you pinch yourself saying like, "Oh my you pinch yourself saying like, "Oh my gosh, we were gosh, we were gosh, we were we were we we did all this." we were we we did all this." we were we we did all this." >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. Yes, um Yes, um Yes, um I just I always think back to '94, I just I always think back to '94, I just I always think back to '94, right? Where I was I was then to where I right? Where I was I was then to where I right? Where I was I was then to where I was now. Uh it just happens to be that was now. Uh it just happens to be that was now. Uh it just happens to be that my daughter that my oldest is the same my daughter that my oldest is the same my daughter that my oldest is the same age as I was when we went when it age as I was when we went when it age as I was when we went when it happened, I'm sorry. And then just being happened, I'm sorry. And then just being happened, I'm sorry. And then just being able to you know, back then we didn't able to you know, back then we didn't able to you know, back then we didn't host it. But now we did and it just host it. But now we did and it just host it. But now we did and it just being able to see everything that that's being able to see everything that that's being able to see everything that that's behind the tables, behind the camera, behind the tables, behind the camera, behind the tables, behind the camera, everything that was going on, the everything that was going on, the everything that was going on, the logistics, how the city came together to logistics, how the city came together to logistics, how the city came together to make sure that traffic was going.

make sure that traffic was going. make sure that traffic was going. And And And and everything that was and everything that was and everything that was you were able to get opportunities for you were able to get opportunities for you were able to get opportunities for the community to be able to enjoy. That the community to be able to enjoy. That the community to be able to enjoy. That was that was wonderful. was that was wonderful. was that was wonderful. And on our side of things like you know, And on our side of things like you know, And on our side of things like you know, being able to go to a couple of games being able to go to a couple of games being able to go to a couple of games experiencing that. experiencing that. experiencing that. My water my daughter being able to walk My water my daughter being able to walk My water my daughter being able to walk on the field with some of the players on the field with some of the players on the field with some of the players that was part of A Levi's D. They were that was part of A Levi's D. They were that was part of A Levi's D. They were able to provide that. able to provide that. able to provide that. You know, that was a wonderful You know, that was a wonderful You know, that was a wonderful experience and also all the other kids experience and also all the other kids experience and also all the other kids that were able to do that. I think that that were able to do that. I think that that were able to do that. I think that it was very impactful and just the it was very impactful and just the it was very impactful and just the business that it created and just business that it created and just business that it created and just the passion for I think not just the passion for I think not just the passion for I think not just necessarily playing soccer but just necessarily playing soccer but just necessarily playing soccer but just soccer overall and youth sports. soccer overall and youth sports. soccer overall and youth sports. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah. No, there's No, there's No, there's I I feel like there's definitely a I I feel like there's definitely a I I feel like there's definitely a before and an after before and an after before and an after >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> this summer. And so you know, just hope >> this summer. And so you know, just hope >> this summer. And so you know, just hope that it continues to um that it continues to um that it continues to um that it everything continues to grow, that it everything continues to grow, that it everything continues to grow, right? That the the love, that the right? That the the love, that the right? That the the love, that the access, access, access, that we have more people supporting the that we have more people supporting the that we have more people supporting the Dynamo as well. I think that's that's Dynamo as well. I think that's that's Dynamo as well. I think that's that's the very important one. And I know you the very important one. And I know you the very important one. And I know you have been a big supporter because you have been a big supporter because you have been a big supporter because you you've also you've also you've also I know in recent days you've also been I know in recent days you've also been I know in recent days you've also been able to do like ticket giveaways and able to do like ticket giveaways and able to do like ticket giveaways and stuff like that. So you know, thank you stuff like that. So you know, thank you stuff like that. So you know, thank you for always thinking of community and and for always thinking of community and and for always thinking of community and and providing those opportunities because it providing those opportunities because it providing those opportunities because it does bring more people close to the game does bring more people close to the game does bring more people close to the game through those experiences.

through those experiences. through those experiences. >> Absolutely. We were able to partner up >> Absolutely. We were able to partner up >> Absolutely. We were able to partner up with Dynamo Charities and that was we've with Dynamo Charities and that was we've with Dynamo Charities and that was we've been doing it since I was in education. been doing it since I was in education. been doing it since I was in education. And it expanded [clears throat] And it expanded [clears throat] And it expanded [clears throat] to where it is at now and it's to where it is at now and it's to where it is at now and it's like I mentioned before it's being able like I mentioned before it's being able like I mentioned before it's being able to get the kids out there to get the kids out there to get the kids out there and you know it's sacrifices well right and you know it's sacrifices well right and you know it's sacrifices well right to get in them there to get in them there to get in them there however you know if if we can impact however you know if if we can impact however you know if if we can impact them in that way where they can just be them in that way where they can just be them in that way where they can just be able to once in a lifetime experience able to once in a lifetime experience able to once in a lifetime experience come out there and enjoy it or also come out there and enjoy it or also come out there and enjoy it or also some some of our some some of our some some of our older older older adults right that they can take their adults right that they can take their adults right that they can take their kids and experience that with them kids and experience that with them kids and experience that with them because that those are fun memories that because that those are fun memories that because that those are fun memories that I have you know my dad always taking me I have you know my dad always taking me I have you know my dad always taking me to to to Astros or Oilers back then Astros or Oilers back then Astros or Oilers back then and Texans games and things like that and Texans games and things like that and Texans games and things like that and Rockets that I always remember and and Rockets that I always remember and and Rockets that I always remember and it was it's something that I I hope it was it's something that I I hope it was it's something that I I hope those memories are able to be built with those memories are able to be built with those memories are able to be built with with the ones that we give the tickets with the ones that we give the tickets with the ones that we give the tickets to. to. to. >> Yeah, no wonderful. Well, thank you so >> Yeah, no wonderful. Well, thank you so >> Yeah, no wonderful. Well, thank you so much thank you so much for being here much thank you so much for being here much thank you so much for being here today sharing sharing about you know today sharing sharing about you know today sharing sharing about you know yourself your business yourself your business yourself your business where you see youth soccer where it's where you see youth soccer where it's where you see youth soccer where it's been where it's going and been where it's going and been where it's going and I look forward to hopefully we can do I look forward to hopefully we can do I look forward to hopefully we can do you know partner collaborate or you know partner collaborate or you know partner collaborate or something in the future on on the something in the future on on the something in the future on on the different projects that we're I think different projects that we're I think different projects that we're I think we're both working on we've we've kind we're both working on we've we've kind we're both working on we've we've kind of been in the same ecosystem so it'd be of been in the same ecosystem so it'd be of been in the same ecosystem so it'd be great to to see what opportunities are great to to see what opportunities are great to to see what opportunities are there but yeah thank you for being here.

there but yeah thank you for being here. there but yeah thank you for being here. >> Absolutely thank you it was a pleasure. >> Absolutely thank you it was a pleasure. >> Absolutely thank you it was a pleasure. >> Yeah, well and remember guys >> Yeah, well and remember guys >> Yeah, well and remember guys the football takeover we are here every the football takeover we are here every the football takeover we are here every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. with wonderful Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. with wonderful Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. with wonderful guests and so make sure that you tune in guests and so make sure that you tune in guests and so make sure that you tune in and I just want to say a really quick and I just want to say a really quick and I just want to say a really quick shout out to Catalina Paola and also our shout out to Catalina Paola and also our shout out to Catalina Paola and also our friends at Twin Oaks Apartments for friends at Twin Oaks Apartments for friends at Twin Oaks Apartments for tuning in and and leaving us a comment tuning in and and leaving us a comment tuning in and and leaving us a comment I hope that everybody enjoys this I hope that everybody enjoys this I hope that everybody enjoys this morning the rest of the day and that morning the rest of the day and that morning the rest of the day and that this weekend I think there's a Dynamo this weekend I think there's a Dynamo this weekend I think there's a Dynamo game coming up. game coming up. game coming up. >> There's a Dash game on 8th I know that. >> There's a Dash game on 8th I know that. >> There's a Dash game on 8th I know that. >> So make sure make sure that you go >> So make sure make sure that you go >> So make sure make sure that you go support our local teams right Houston support our local teams right Houston support our local teams right Houston Dash and the Houston Dynamo and then Dash and the Houston Dynamo and then Dash and the Houston Dynamo and then also on August 15th, I forgot to mention also on August 15th, I forgot to mention also on August 15th, I forgot to mention this, this, this, uh the Dynamo is going to do like a big uh the Dynamo is going to do like a big uh the Dynamo is going to do like a big celebration um for the 20th anniversary celebration um for the 20th anniversary celebration um for the 20th anniversary of that championship, that 2006 of that championship, that 2006 of that championship, that 2006 championship. So, I know I'll be there. championship. So, I know I'll be there. championship. So, I know I'll be there. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Um I might be wearing my my championship >> Um I might be wearing my my championship >> Um I might be wearing my my championship ring that day, but yeah, we really want ring that day, but yeah, we really want ring that day, but yeah, we really want to celebrate um you know, our teams and to celebrate um you know, our teams and to celebrate um you know, our teams and and everybody that's part of this uh and everybody that's part of this uh and everybody that's part of this uh soccer ecosystem here in Houston. But, soccer ecosystem here in Houston. But, soccer ecosystem here in Houston. But, thank you guys for tuning in and we'll thank you guys for tuning in and we'll thank you guys for tuning in and we'll see you next week.

see you next week. see you next week. Yeah, no, Nick's