FC Naples kicks off its second round of open tryouts, an event that pulses with excitement and hope for aspiring soccer players. Head Coach Matt Poland is searching for 23 talented individuals who will become the foundation of his team.
On a sunny Saturday morning, the professional soccer team hosted its latest round of tryouts at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex Stadium in Naples from 8 – 10 a.m. This lively venue echoed with the sounds of effort and ambition as 50 players showcased their skills, ready to seize their opportunity.
Bob Moreno, the CEO of FC Naples, reported that interest runs high, with over 100 additional hopefuls on a waiting list. “The community is buzzing,” he said, as he stood on the sidelines watching players pour their hearts onto the field. You can watch Victoria Scott’s full report on FOX 4, capturing the essence of this vibrant scene:
FC Naples kicks off second round of open tryouts
The first day was dedicated to various drills and technical skills, a canvas where dreams can be painted into reality. As the sun graced the field, the anticipation grew for the following day’s 11v11 format, which would offer a more expansive view of each player’s abilities.
Moreno emphasized the team’s commitment to the local community. “The first thing is community,” he stated. “This time has always been about building and supporting the community. We want to give the people in Southwest Florida the ability to make the team.” The focus is not merely on skill but on nurturing local pride. Moreno’s words reflect a genuine desire to unearth talent that resonates with the spirit of Naples.
“We’re super excited because we’re searching for that diamond in the rough — our hometown hero,” remarked Kim McDonnell, Director of Corporate Partnerships for FC Naples. “Someone the community can rally behind, a player who will inspire support from local businesses like the Naples Botanical Garden and the local restaurants that thrive on that sense of camaraderie.”
As anticipation builds, Moreno revealed that the next round of tryouts will be invite-only, heightening the stakes for the participants. The team will also be considering seven international spots on its roster. It’s a balancing act between cultivating local talent and inviting global influences that adds richness to the game.
The countdown to the first game is underway, set for early March 2025. The energy swirling around these tryouts reminds fans of the magic that happens when aspirations meet opportunity. For those interested in being part of this vibrant sports culture, information on tickets is available through this link. In the end, it’s not just about the game; it’s about the community, the stories woven together through shared passion for soccer on the sun-soaked fields of Naples.
