LEAGUE CITY — The South Coast Youth Soccer program celebrates a historical milestone by awarding its first-ever scholarships to three honorary athletes. Aiming to develop and train young aspiring players to reach their highest potential, the organization granted them $1,000 scholarships towards the college of their choosing.

This year’s recipients were James Aaron Pope, Cameron Best, and Kayson Steinfeld—three up-and-coming talents who showcased their sheer talent, athleticism and absolute dedication to the sport. Each of them plan to continue playing soccer, onto a collegiate level, then aspiring for a chance to enter a professional league.

The coaching staff, made up of Liam Kelly, Joao Lucredi and Dane Williams-West, have been essential in helping these athletes develop their skills on and off the field.

“It’s important that we work together,” Coach Lucredi said, “we’re all a big family here, and we want to prepare for their future.”

The South Coastal Youth Soccer program is more than just a training ground — it’s an extraordinary, welcoming community that fosters unity and determination among its players. The families of the three athletes shared how the organization has impacted their rising stars.

“It’s very family oriented here; it’s not just about the soccer, but about team building,” said Yasemin Best, Cameron’s mother, “Cameron’s never missed a day, always on time and lives soccer.”

Nicole Oquinn, James’s mother stated that despite it being his first year, he has shown significant growth in his playmaking.

“This is his first year here, but he’s already showing improvement,” said Nicole Oquinn, “far more than we expected.”

Candace Burton, Kason’s mother, expressed gratitude for the program, the coaching staff, and their efforts to mentor her son to be a possible prospect.

“We love it here,” said Candace Burton “The coaches all have real experience that they can give to the kids.”

South Coastal Youth Soccer plans to offer scholarships to any hard-working athletes wanting to follow their dreams in the following years.

Photo credit: KGTX 7