In an act of generosity, a local donor (who wants to remain anonymous) has stepped forward to fully fund a high school-aged girls’ soccer showcase team in Sarasota for the 2025/26 season in an effort to combat the high rate of girls dropping out of sports. The initiative aims to provide top-level opportunities for aspiring female soccer players in the region, opening doors to competitive play and college recruitment.

Unprecedented Scholarships for Top Players

Eleven of the best young soccer players in Sarasota will be selected to join the fully-funded team, each receiving a full scholarship. This scholarship covers the club registration fees, training fee’s and administrative costs, which normally cost around $2,495 per player, effectively removing a major financial barrier for athletes and families in Sarasota. The only costs players will be responsible for are uniforms and tournament expenses, ensuring that talented athletes won’t be held back due to financial constraints.

Competitive Play and Expert Coaching

The team will train three times a week in Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch, developing the skills and mental toughness required to compete at the highest levels. In addition to their regular training, the girls will have the opportunity to guest play with the DME National Team in Daytona and with Tika Taka College Prep, further expanding their exposure to top-tier competition.

The team will be coached by Club Owner Jared Antista and Assistant Director of Coaching Jon Taylor. Both coaches bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, focused on progressing players to the next level. In fact, Jared coaches a 2012 top ten team in the state, and JT coaches the 2010 and 2011 boys, with the 2010 boys earning a spot in the Elite Academy League National Championships, this June.

Aiming for the Next Level: College Recruitment

This new initiative isn’t just about soccer; it’s about creating pathways for success. The team’s primary focus will be on development, helping each player hone their skills in preparation for college recruitment. By showcasing their abilities in top-tier tournaments, players will gain valuable exposure to college scouts, setting the stage for future opportunities at the collegiate level.

With personalized coaching from Antista and Taylor, the team will be centered on individual growth and collective achievement. The support of a professional coaching staff and access to high-caliber competition are crucial ingredients for helping these athletes reach their goals and make the leap to the college ranks.

A Commitment to Girls’ Sports in Sarasota

This generous donation highlights a growing commitment to the development of girls’ sports in Sarasota and the broader region. By investing in these young athletes, the anonymous donor is helping shape the future of girls’ soccer, ensuring that talent is nurtured regardless of financial background.

The Sarasota community, as well as the broader sports community, is sure to benefit from this investment in youth sports. As the team begins its journey in 2025/26, all eyes will be on these talented young women as they strive to reach their full potential and represent Sarasota on the national stage.

How to Get Involved

Players interested in joining the showcase team should get on the tryout list here!

With full scholarships available and top-level coaching on offer, this is an incredible opportunity for any high school-aged girl passionate about advancing in the world of soccer. As this exciting new chapter begins, one thing is clear: the future of Sarasota’s girls’ soccer is bright, and this initiative is only the beginning of a new era of growth, opportunity, and success.

(if the team doesn’t come to fruition, funds will freeze for next season or be dispersed amongst all female athletes at DME evenly at discretion of DME).