WHY THE SOCKERS?

“Being a part of the Sockers family has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my high school years. From the very beginning, I was welcomed and communicated with immediately, which made me feel very included—even though I wasn’t there in person at first. The sense of community, the high standards, and the genuine care shown to each player are unmatched.

Coach Kraig has had a tremendous impact—not just as a coach, but as a mentor and leader. His passion for the game, his ability to bring out the best in every player, and his commitment to developing strong athletes and even stronger individuals have made all the difference. Kraig has been around since I was 7 years old, so his impact has been incredible to not only myself, but to my entire family. Coach Kraig inspires confidence, accountability, and a true love for the sport.

I am incredibly grateful for everything the club has provided—memories, growth, and lifelong friendships—and would highly recommend the Sockers to any player looking to develop both on and off the field.”

Cadence currently plays Division 2 soccer at Hawaii Pacific University.

“I started with the Sockers when I was 8 as my first competitive club. The club has had a huge impact on my development as a player and person. The club has given me so many opportunities like being able to train with the SD Sockers and the SD Sockers 2 teams. Although Cardiff was a smaller club at the time, I was able to get the exposure I needed to commit to play division 1 at Davidson College. Working with the club’s Champions League program, and working summer camps are some other ways that the Sockers has made me a better person. I love giving back to the program because of everything it has provided me. I owe a lot of my development to the large number of great coaches at the Sockers especially Coach Kraig, Coach Mark, and Coach Chris, my goalkeeping coach.”

Lucas helped lead the SDA high school team to a record breaking season and currently plays Division 1 soccer at Davidson College.

“What I liked most about playing at both Cardiff and Rancho Santa Fe was the care and quality that the coaching staff paid to each player. I was able to play under multiple coaches at each club, and both provided supportive, tight knit environments that prioritized player development, and it felt like each coach really strived to elevate each player’s level. One thing I loved was how the coaches had pro and/or collegiate level experience, often being experience in San Diego which provided unique connections and opportunities. On top of that, both clubs promoted an ethos of being a strong team player, teaching me not only how to be an individual player but an effective and supportive teammate. I am thankful for the lessons and developmental experiences that I received at both Attack and Cardiff.”

Jackson is playing his fourth year of club soccer at UC Berkeley.

“To be able to play for both the Cardiff Sockers and Rancho Santa Fe Attack for as many years as I did has given me many memories, lessons, and unique experiences I’ve carried throughout my whole playing career, and life in general. I have been blessed with many outstanding coaches and teammates who I still call close friends and lean on, on and off the field. These teams I have been a part of have taught me the true meaning of hard work and earning things the correct way, with no corners cut. Without a doubt, I would not be the person I am today without both of these programs, as they have provided me ways to enjoy the game I love. My success on the field has been the product of all my teammates, coaches, and the values they have helped instill in me.”

Caden completed four years at the University of Central Lancashire in England while playing academy soccer for Macclesfield FC.

“From the moment I joined, the Sockers program gave me a true sense of community and a place to share my passion for soccer. I was fortunate to play under several incredible coaches, each helping me grow both on and off the field. Playing a year up and serving as captain taught me the value of leadership, trust, and connection with my teammates. The environment the Sockers created—where coaches inspired us and teammates pushed one another—helped shape not just my game, but who I am today. The friendships and memories I made here still mean so much to me, and they remind me why I fell in love with the sport in the first place. This club will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m grateful to be back home, giving back to the next generation through coaching. Seeing young players find that same sense of belonging and passion that I once did makes it all come full circle.”

Ben completed all four seasons of Division 3 college at Chapman University.

“The Cardiff Mustangs (now Sockers) was the first and only club I played for competitively. Coach Juan invited me to play for his girl's team back in 2010 and helped me develop my skills and overall love for the game! This program will always have a special place in my heart not only because it is where I started my career but because I felt as though it grew with me. My team started at this club when there was only a handful of teams and we were still sponsored by Rimels. I am so proud of this club and so grateful for everyone who has helped us get there. This club and coaches have always been there for me and helped me achieve so many goals including playing 4 years in a competitive D3 program. All the coaches at Cardiff really helped me push myself and get my name out there. Now, there is nothing better than coming home and helping them coach and continue to grow this club!”

Julia played 10+ years at Cardiff and has now completed her master’s degree after playing collegiate soccer at Illinois Tech.