Grayson For 20-year-old Grayson Owens, soccer has been more than a sport—it’s been a lifeline. Now a Business major at National Park College, Grayson’s journey from high school to college athlete is rooted in his transformative experience with Play Where You Stay. “I didn’t even want to go to college,” he admits. “But Maxi called me one day and said he had an opportunity for me. It wasn’t a question—he told me I had to go. That moment changed everything.” "I think it—a lot, to be honest, because a lot of people wouldn't be playing soccer if it wasn't for Play Where You Stay. I wouldn't be in college right now if it wasn't for Play Where You Stay, or at least where I'm at. I know a lot of people who wouldn't have been where they were if it wasn't for Play Where You Stay. Because a lot of people—a lot here is pay-to-play. A lot of people can't, you know..." - Grayson Owens What do you think your life would look like if you didn't continue with Play Where You Stay? Grayson joined Play Where You Stay in his

Jason Jason Rivera-Sarabia’s story is one of resilience, discipline, and the pursuit of dreams. As an 18-year-old Business major at National Park College and a first-generation college student, Jason reflects on the profound impact Play Where You Stay had on his life. Introduced to the program in 10th grade by a friend, Jason found himself challenged and supported by Coach Maxi, who taught him the value of discipline and hard work. “Maxi was hard on me, but it helped me build character,” Jason recalls. “He’d make me run if I was late, and it pushed me to stay on top of my responsibilities, on and off the field.” What did that process look like going through the college prep program at Play Where You Stay? "Maxi had us practice with him three times a week, like personal training. He'd make us work out, lift weights, practice with the ball, and he got us a tryout at NPC. The coach contacted us, and he liked us, and we committed." - Jason Rivera-Sarabia This emphasis on discipline became a cornerstone of Jason’s success, guiding him through the challenges of balancing academics, soccer, and

Linberth Linberth Soriano’s journey from a nervous high school sophomore to a confident college athlete is a powerful testament to the impact of Play Where You Stay. Now a 19-year-old Mechanical Engineering major at National Park College, Linberth reflected on his time with Play Where You Stay, before pursuing his collegiate soccer career. “I started at 15 or 16, nervous about the whole environment,” he recalls. But under the guidance of Coach Maxi and his teammates, Linberth quickly found his footing, becoming a starter and scoring in his very first game. Maxi’s mentorship was pivotal, teaching him skills like pivoting and playmaking while also fostering leadership and confidence. “Maxi didn’t just help me on the field,” Linberth said, “He taught me about teamwork, unity, and how to lead—skills I still use today.” Play Where You Stay’s commitment to accessibility also played a significant role in Linberth’s journey. “Some clubs charge a lot to play, but Play Where You Stay made it possible for kids like me to have a future in soccer without worrying about costs,” he explains. This inclusivity, combined with tailored support in connecting players to college opportunities, allowed Linberth to overcome barriers, including the

Matar Matar Sine, a former PWYS Competitive Boys Team player turned psychology major at National Park College, is the embodiment of how opportunity and support can transform lives. Reflecting on his time with Play Where You Stay, Matar shares, “Play Where You Stay gave me freedom. It convinced me that soccer is the sport I want to pursue. Without it, I probably would have just kept running track.” Matar joined the program during his junior year of high school, initially unsure about committing to soccer. But through the encouragement of friends and coaches like Maxi, he discovered a passion for the game and a sense of belonging he had never experienced in other sports. “Soccer is different. It’s a community,” Matar explains. “You get to express yourself on the field, and Play Where You Stay made that possible for me.” The "express yourself" ideology. I played for other clubs, but my favorite thing about Play Where You Stay was that we were structured but not restricted. We could play as freely as we wanted, and that's really what made us better than every other team we played. - Matar Sine

K-5 SPRING SOCCER SCHEDULE 2024 Stay up to date on Play Where You Stay's upcoming games and practices in your area! As a reminder, school practice fields are only available to students enrolled in that school. Want to play with us? Click here to sign up!   CANCELED FOR WEATHER GAME DAY – May 18 We look forward to seeing you at practice next week!   Practices during the week of May 20 School Field Willow Oaks Elementary School 4417 Willow Rd, Memphis, TN 38117 K, 1st, 2nd Grades – 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Monday and Wednesday 3rd, 4th, 5th, Grades – 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday Neighborhood Fields Kroc Center – 4 to 5 p.m. 800 E Pkwy S, Memphis, TN 38104 Second Baptist Church – 4 to 5 p.m. 4680 Walnut Grove, Memphis, TN, 38117 Treadwell Park – 4 to 5 p.m. Guernsey Ave, Memphis, TN 38122

Soccer culture is alive and well in Memphis, and Celtic Crossing is one of the preeminent places to catch a game any time of year. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our technical director in residence, Jesús "Jesule" Barbadilla, during the April 21 Real Madrid vs. Barcelona match!  Here’s what you need to know!  Our friends at Celtic Crossing are partnering with us to support the development of exceptional soccer programming in Memphis by offering beer deals throughout the game. Starting at 2 p.m. when the match begins, $1 of every Auld Bog by Soul & Spirits purchased will go toward Play Where You Stays’ K-5 developmental and competitive programs, ensuring Memphis children have access to high-quality soccer coaching. They’ll also pass the hat throughout the game, allowing diners to invest in the joy of sport by supporting PWYS. This event is open to the public and is kid-friendly. We encourage everyone to come out and celebrate soccer, watch an incredible match, have a beer and enjoy one of the most beloved patios in the city. This is your opportunity to meet a professional soccer player.  One of the best parts of this event is the rare opportunity to engage