Cheers and applause erupt as the young goalie makes an incredible save, grabbing the ball just before it enters the net. It’s the final moment of an unforgettable game that marked Caldwell Elementary’s first match with their new gear. On the sidelines, Gisele Carone watches with pride as a smile spreads. It’s not just about the save but about what it represents: confidence, teamwork, and perseverance taking shape right before her eyes.

When Carone stepped into the classroom at Caldwell Elementary this year, she had a vision that went beyond teaching. Growing up playing soccer in Brazil, she saw firsthand how the sport shaped her life, teaching valuable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and leadership. As Carone watched her students' enthusiasm for the game during recess, she saw an opportunity to create something special. She wanted to build an elementary soccer club that would help students develop athletic skills while also building character, developing social connections, and opening doors to new possibilities.

From the start, Carone knew the club would be about more than soccer. It was about giving students the chance to grow as individuals and teaching them the importance of responsibility on and off the field. With encouragement from her campus and parents, the idea quickly took off, creating the first-ever Caldwell Elementary Soccer Club.

Now, every Wednesday afternoon, a group of fourth and fifth graders meets after school for practice. They know they're not just preparing for a game as they lace up their shoes and grab their gear. They’re preparing for life. They learn how to pass, dribble, and score on the field. Off the field, they’re learning just as much. The club has already made a noticeable impact on students' social skills, helping them communicate, collaborate, and work toward a common goal. These lessons will stay with them long after the final whistle blows.

One of the most remarkable things about the club is how it has brought students together. Whether helping a teammate struggling with a new skill or celebrating a big goal, the sense of community is undeniable. Students who might not have interacted otherwise are now forming friendships and building trust with one another. The club is more than just a team; it’s a support network helping them grow as individuals.

Watching her students develop both on and off the field has been nothing short of rewarding for Carone.

“It’s amazing to see how much they’ve grown in such a short time,” she said. “They’ve learned to communicate better, support one another, and push themselves to be their best. It’s about much more than soccer. It’s about preparing them for the challenges they’ll face in life.”

A Game-Changing Gift

What happened next was more than just a donation. It was a celebration of opportunity and potential. USL Dallas, inspired by the club’s mission, stepped in with a game-changing surprise. In a special event at Caldwell Elementary, representatives from the organization presented the team with brand-new soccer gear, uniforms, and equipment, ensuring that every player had the tools to thrive. Excitement filled the air as students suited up in their new gear for the first time, their confidence soaring with each jersey pulled over their heads and each cleat laced up.

However, the impact went beyond the equipment. The event wrapped up with a thrilling scrimmage, where the young athletes put their new uniforms to the test in an exciting match, cheered on by their families, teachers, and classmates. This moment wasn’t just about soccer. It was about confidence, opportunity, and the support of a community that believes in them.

“As soon as we heard about this program, we knew we had to do something to make sure they had everything they needed to build a successful program,” said Matt Valentine, founder and chairman of USL Dallas. “Soccer is such a beautiful sport, but there aren’t many opportunities at this age to play on a team unless you are on a club team. We are honored to support them and hopefully start a trend among elementary schools.”

“Matt and I met on a soccer field as kids, so we know firsthand how important it is to build that foundation and passion at a young age,” added Sam Morton, co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of USL Dallas. “We want to see these kids grow as athletes and students, and soccer is a wonderful way to build lifelong skills.”

"Looking ahead, Carone plans to expand the program to younger students as early as next year, ensuring even more children experience the power of sports. She also envisions organizing games against other schools and trips to high school soccer matches, giving students a broader vision of what’s possible and new goals to strive for.

It’s this kind of innovation that makes Garland ISD unmatched, finding new ways to empower students beyond the classroom.

“This isn’t just about soccer,” Carone shared. “It’s about opening doors, creating opportunities, and showing these kids that they have the potential to do anything they set their minds to. I’m so proud of how far they’ve come, and I can’t wait to see how far they’ll go.”

The Caldwell Elementary Soccer Club is more than an after-school activity for these students. It is an unmatched opportunity to shape their future in more ways than one.

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