GARLAND, Texas (August 21, 2025) — Garland ISD is excited to begin a new after school soccer program thanks to a generous donation from Atlético Dallas. Leaders from Atlético Dallas attended last night’s board meeting of the Garland ISD Education Foundation to formally present a gift of $75,000 to support expanded access to soccer across the Garland Independent School District. The gift will support the development of after-school and extracurricular soccer programs at both the elementary and middle school levels, creating new opportunities for students to participate in the sport.
The team recently sponsored Caldwell Elementary’s after-school soccer program, sparking ideas about how to make a bigger impact. That initiative—launched in partnership with Garland ISD and the GISD Education Foundation—drew overwhelming participation and community support.
“It was hands-down one of the best things we’ve ever done. Our visit to Caldwell Elementary showed us what’s possible when students have access to the game,” said Matt Valentine, Co-Founder and Chairman of Atlético Dallas. “We’re honored to build on that momentum by partnering with the Garland ISD Education Foundation to make soccer more accessible to more kids across the district.”
The Garland ISD Education Foundation manage the funds and initiate a grant application process for schools to apply for assistance in starting a program. Grants will help fund equipment, coaching stipends, transportation, and other program costs over a three-year period.
“This generous pledge from Atlético Dallas is more than a gift—it’s an investment in our students,” said Lisa Cox, President of the Garland ISD Education Foundation. “We’re thrilled to partner with an organization that understands the power of sport to shape character, boost confidence, and open doors.”
Garland ISD Superintendent Dr. Ricardo López, who attended the Caldwell Elementary event earlier this year, said he was inspired by the students’ excitement and sense of pride in representing their school on the field.
“When I attended the after-school soccer program at Caldwell Elementary, I saw firsthand the joy and engagement these programs bring to our kids,” said Dr. López. “I told the Atlético Dallas team that I wanted to see this replicated across our district—more programs at the elementary level, and expanded opportunities at our middle schools for every student who wants to play. Thanks to their support, that vision is now within reach.”
MEDIA CONTACT: Amber Freeland 214-919-5256 media@atleticodallas.com
