By Monir Khilla and Edgar Rivas, Jr.—

Fans and family gathered around to watch their sons and daughters play soccer. This wasn’t your regular high school pick-up game. The tournament was held by The Jersey Soccer Alliance, a non-profit organization created by 2 NJCU students- Anthony Ramirez, 27, Political Science, from Jersey City and Miguel Perez, 27, International Business, from Jersey City.

There were food, drinks, and even a DJ playing music in the background. Students from Hillside, Ferris, and Memorial High School participated in the tournament. The event was the conclusion of the training camp conducted by The Jersey Soccer Alliance and their volunteers.

An idea that started in 2008, the program has grown since its inception. The first year, which was in 2009, included only one high school. The following year the program grew to two high schools and continued to grow to four high schools and six camps this year.

“Little by little we’ve been adding on and getting more sponsors,” he said.

Starting a non-profit program is not as easy as people would think.

“(You have to) realize what you have to offer, evaluate yourself, see if you can do it, and after that see what is needed,” he said.

Anyone from ages 13-19 can join. It is to develop the high school students’ skills, in preparation for college soccer. But the development of skills isn’t the only thing taught at this program.

“We promote education, work ethic, trying to do the right thing, and hard work,” he said.

The Jersey Soccer Alliance also works with their sponsors to help give the kids and their families ESL training, as well as immigration help.

Students that came from different countries even participated.

“I didn’t play when I was in Guatemala,” said Jorge Lopez, 18, from Ferris HS. “I came here 5 years ago and I wanted to play but my sister wouldn’t let me. When I got into it, she let me play.”

The camp was open to female participants as well.

“It’s been pretty good,” said Bianca Ferreira, 16, from Hillside HS. “It makes us feel like pros. It gives you an experience on how college might be for soccer.”

“I love the camp. I’ve been to 2 camps and it is fun. I learned a lot and exercised the time,” said Kimberly Cardona, 17, from Memorial HS.

Ramirez, a passionate soccer fan himself, said that when he founded The Jersey Soccer Alliance, a certain void in his life was filled.

“I wanted to do something with a meaning in my life,” he said.

www.jerseysocceralliance.org