In the mid 2000’s, I volunteered to coach my daughter Stephany’s rec soccer team for Laguna Soccer Club. The following year my son Jason wanted to play soccer as well.

I was coaching both teams, when another coach from the Laguna asked if I was interesting in taking over the competitive program (Black Oaks) with him. And so we did.

Laguna along with six other club in Santa Rosa decided to combine and would then form Empire and Santa Rosa South. By then Laguna’s competitive program Black Oaks had 6 teams playing for them. We were given an option to take Black Oaks and form our own club. But little did I know that my partner did not want continue coaching any more. Basically I was left alone.

Knowing that some families couldn’t afford other clubs in the area. I decided to make Black Oaks an affordable club for children who want to play soccer, and provided a safe environment where kids will learn team work, respect for one and other, and have an opportunity to have success in their lives.

If Black Oaks can change one child’s life I call it a success.

-Francisco Vallejo, President