“I would like to talk about my kids’ experience with Oakland Genesis. When it comes to learning new skills, they have learned a lot. It has helped their confidence on the field and with their peers. Oakland Genesis coaches my son, my daughter, and the other children with love and patience. Oakland Genesis has inspired them and made them so comfortable that, whatever the situation, rainy weather or super hot weather, at night or on the weekend, they love being there. 

What I love most about Oakland Genesis is that they help out in academic struggles. This has helped my kids a lot. Before or after practicing they have study hall. Study hall is something you truly appreciate as a parent because the second my kids’ grades drop, Oakland Genesis gets them into the classroom to find out what the issue is. They help me as a mother to keep my kids' minds busy, which for me is important because each kid in Oakland Genesis is one less kid on the streets and one more kid inspired about their future. 

Thanks to Oakland Genesis we have experienced events we didn't think we'd ever experience, like Christmas with the Curry’s where we met Stephen and Ayesha Curry and got to take home a lot of holiday presents, like a laptop computer, or the Oakland Roots and Oakland A’s games. And it is not just the kids in the club that are invited, but their families, too. I thank and appreciate every Oakland Genesis soccer coach and academic coach that has been with my kids because they are making a real impact in my kids’ lives, as well as helping me out when I am not able to pick them up or drop them off at practices or games. It's good to know I always have someone there for my needs. Once again, thank you Oakland Genesis!”

- Emelia Santiago (mother of two Oakland Genesis Academy players)