NAPLES, Fla. — FC Naples is looking to grow the game far beyond match day.
The club recently hosted its first-ever youth soccer camp, giving young athletes from across Southwest Florida the opportunity to learn directly from FC Naples players and coaches.
For assistant coach Chris Gores, the camp was about helping young players fall in love with soccer.
“Seeing these boys and girls, you know, playing and having fun and laughing and getting better at soccer, it’s really what it’s all about,” Gores said.
The event comes as soccer continues to gain momentum locally, with FC Naples entering its second season and the FIFA World Cup set to begin this week.
Gores said the camp also helped strengthen the connection between players and the community.
“I really just think it brings them a little bit closer to the fans. Breaks down the wall a little bit,” Gores said.
For club leadership, the camp reflects a mission that has existed since FC Naples was founded.
“Our job is to continue growing soccer here in Naples, to give kids the opportunity to experience games, for families, to experience the games. And hopefully some of these kids will be on the team in the future,” co-founder and CEO Roberto “Bob” Moreno said.