A Gift That Brought More Than Just Gear

On the 7th of August 2023, something truly special happened at Addo Football Youth Academy. The kind of moment that reminds you why we do what we do.

The kids didn’t know what to expect. All they knew was that something exciting was on the way. And then it arrived—boxes and bags filled with soccer boots, custom kits, balls, nets, and more. The Citrus Growers Association (CGA) had come through with an incredible donation. It was one of those “hold-your-breath” kind of days.

As we unpacked everything, the atmosphere shifted. The kids' faces lit up—wide eyes, shy grins, bursts of laughter. For many of them, it was the first time they'd ever owned their own pair of boots or worn a brand-new kit with their name on it. The pride was visible. You could feel it.

Let’s be honest—this is about more than just gear. Yes, CGA gave us 100 pairs of soccer boots, top-quality balls, soccer poles and nets, bibs, branded water bottles, and even a secure storage container to keep everything safe. But what they really gave us was belief. Belief in the potential of every child who walks through our gates.

And belief is powerful.

It says: You are worth investing in. It says: Your dreams matter. It says: We see you.

We often talk about “empowering youth,” and it’s easy to throw around those words without really sitting with what they mean. But on that day, we saw it. Kids standing taller. Coaches tearing up quietly in the corner. Teammates helping each other try on gear, lacing boots, passing the new ball around like it was made of gold.

We’re not just building athletes at AFYA—we’re building confidence, self-worth, and hope.

To the CGA team, thank you. Your generosity is not just appreciated—it’s felt, every single day on the field. The donation you made isn’t sitting in storage. It’s being used, proudly, passionately, and with so much gratitude.

Thank you for seeing the future in our children, and for helping them see it in themselves.

With a full heart,