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Flores, Dora From: Sent: Tuesday, September 16, 2025 6:30 PM To: eComment Subject: Soccer field access issues La academia Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links. Dear city council, My name is Elizabeth Mendoza, and I am a parent in Santa Ana who strongly believes Albion Soccer Club and La Academia is an essential addition to our community. For years, AYSO provided Santa Ana families with a safe, structured, and affordable environment where children could learn soccer. Since its departure, families have been left with only small recreational leagues that, while valuable, do not offer the consistency, organization, and developmental pathway that many players need. Albion Soccer Club and La academia fills this critical gap. My own son plays as a goalkeeper for Albion, and I have seen firsthand the quality of coaching, structure, and player development they provide. He has thrived in an environment that challenges him to grow while keeping the game fun, safe, and positive. Here are a few reasons why Albion's presence in Santa Ana is so important: I . Safe and Structured Environment — Albion requires background checks for all coaches, ensuring children are in safe hands. They also provide standardized fees, clear communication, and professional coaching unlike some leagues where costs and rules vary widely. 2. Pathway for Growth — Many families in Santa Ana must travel to Irvine, Tustin, Huntington Beach, or even San Diego for higher -level opportunities. Albion offers a local pathway for players who want to pursue competitive soccer, college scholarships, or simply develop at a higher level without leaving our city. 3. Equal Opportunity for Girls — Historically, girls in Santa Ana have had fewer opportunities for structured, competitive soccer. Albion ensures girls have the same access to high -quality coaching and pathways as boys, fostering confidence, leadership, and athletic growth. 4. Community Pride and Accessibility — Keeping Albion in Santa Ana means our children can represent their own city with pride. It also reduces the burden on families who currently spend hours commuting to other cities for the same opportunities. 5. Regional Attraction and Competitiveness — Having Albion in Santa Ana will not only benefit our local families but also attract players and families from surrounding cities. This raises the level of competition, brings positive visibility to Santa Ana, and strengthens our community's reputation as a hub for youth sports. 6. Collaboration, Not Competition — Albion's presence does not diminish local leagues. Instead, it complements them by providing another option for families who want more structure or competitiveness. Recreational and competitive programs can and should coexist to give every child regardless of ability a place to play.