By OkayGoal 
The ongoing wave of youth talent in the NWSL comes as no surprise when considering the various elite development programs across the nation. D’Feeters Kicks Soccer Club is to Texas what SoCal Blues is to California. Let’s take a look at the program’s philosophy, standout players, and coaches.
Mission and Philosophy
DKSC is the combination of two clubs that share the same values of family, culture, and quality. The purpose of DKSC stems from the desire to provide the best environment for players to thrive. Whether it’s field conditions, equipment, or knowledge, enhancing player development at a young age is an investment DKSC prioritizes fully.
Alongside the mission of the program is a vital philosophy: trusting the process. When players begin to encounter difficulty in the game, frustration and overall negativity typically start to consume them.
Obstacles are a natural occurrence in the sport, and relaying this to youth players allows them to understand that frustration is normal to feel. However, the balancing and managing of these negative emotions is what’s important, and this is what DKSC encourages through trusting the growth process.
The engagement the program aims to provide its audience is easy to grasp when taking a look at the club’s website. With resources such as upcoming tournaments and links to reach out to coaches, families in and around Texas who are passionate about developing their children’s soccer experience have an amazing outlet in DKSC.
Coaches and Important Figures
The program has various girls’ teams from ECNL and select squads. With this comes many experienced coaches and staff members to help the program function.
Michael Bones is the coach for the 07-09 ECNL girls’ squads. Hugh Bradford is a prominent figure in the organization as he has not only been involved since the 2018 merger, but he is also the Director of Coaching. Bradford also manages the 2010-2012 ECNL girls’ teams. Jay Vielma, Anthony Martinez, Lonney Hernandez, and Adrian Plomares coach the girls on the select teams.
A huge piece of the DKSC puzzle is none other than president Juan Martinez himself. It was in 2005 when he initially aspired to provide the best soccer environment for his own daughter. His aspiration has expanded and has benefited the vast areas of Texas by enriching the soccer experience for many players and families.
Standout Players and Alumni
Without a doubt, players rely on coaches not only to provide the necessary knowledge to excel but also to bring inspiration when the going gets tough. DKSC has recently produced many standout alumni.
Carmen Lopez and Lauren Omholt are two recent DKSC alumni who have successfully transitioned to their next chapters. The two were recently called up to the U-23 women’s Mexican national team. Both Lopez and Omholt have progressed and made a significant impact on Mexico’s youth national teams, which is the right trajectory if they aim to secure senior team roles.
Another aspiring prospect who is part of the DKSC legacy is Angelica Castillo. She was recently called up to play with the U-17 girls’ Colombian national team. Her attacking mindset and ball skills are only expected to flourish under DKSC and now with the youth Colombian squad.
Image via @dksclub
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