The Jr. Trojans Soccer Club and Rec League is a thriving hub for young athletes, built on a foundation of teamwork, respect, and passion for the game. Since its inception in late 2016, the organization has flourished, providing a structured yet inclusive environment for children to develop their soccer skills while fostering respect and camaraderie. Based in Pahrump, Nevada, the league plays its games at Petrack Park, where Friday nights come alive with energy and excitement as young athletes take to the field. What started as a small group of parents and coaches coming together to create more soccer opportunities has evolved into a thriving program that prioritizes player development, teamwork, and integrity.
The program was born out of a simple yet profound love for the sport shared by a group of parents and coaches who recognized a need for continued opportunities for young athletes beyond seasonal play. The original founding members included Amy Carlson, Danny Coleman, Raquel Avena Slusher, and Jimmy Martinez. Initially, the organization started as a single club team, the ’05 Trojans, composed of girls born in 2005 and 2006. These players, along with their dedicated coaches and parents, formed a team and began participating in tournaments in Las Vegas, Utah, and beyond. Despite not always having the most refined technical skills, the team had something far more valuable—unwavering teamwork, respect, and a deep-seated love for the game. Their bond and discipline paid off, leading them to significant victories, including a state championship in just their second season. This early success demonstrated the need for a formalized organization, and by early 2018, the Jr. Trojans Soccer Club was officially established.
Dusty Park played a crucial role in the development and growth of the Jr. Trojans Soccer Club. A dedicated coach and advocate for youth sports, Dusty was instrumental in establishing both the club teams and the recreational league. Recognizing the financial and logistical challenges of club soccer, he worked tirelessly to create the TFC Academy, ensuring that all children, regardless of their financial situation, had an opportunity to play. Dusty’s leadership, commitment, and passion for the sport have helped shape the organization into what it is today, providing countless young athletes with opportunities to grow both on and off the field.
The mission of Jr. Trojans Soccer Club has always been clear: to prioritize respect and sportsmanship above all else. These values extend beyond the soccer field, with an emphasis on players being well-rounded individuals in their academics and home life. While winning is always a goal, the club prioritizes character development, ensuring that players maintain good grades, respect their parents and teachers, and contribute positively to their community. This philosophy has guided the organization from its humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of youth soccer in the area.
In its growth, the program expanded to six club travel teams across different age groups. However, recognizing the financial and time commitments required for club soccer, the organization established a recreational league—the Trojan Football Club (TFC) Academy—to ensure that all children, regardless of resources, had access to quality soccer training. The rec league, led by dedicated volunteers, provides an affordable and competitive soccer experience, averaging around 230 players per season. The demand for participation is so high that the league has had to turn away children due to limited field space, a testament to its success and community support.
The league welcomes players aged four to fourteen, ensuring that each child has an opportunity to play in a division that best suits their skill level and age. Unlike larger national organizations, the Jr. Trojans Soccer Club enjoys a degree of flexibility in structuring its divisions. This allows them to create age-appropriate groupings each season based on enrollment numbers rather than rigid national guidelines. By playing under a club umbrella, they maintain the ability to prioritize safety, skill development, and fun while adapting to the community’s unique needs.
A defining feature of the organization is its commitment to developing well-rounded players. Coaches are trained to encourage versatility, ensuring that athletes learn multiple positions rather than being confined to a single role. This philosophy helps players build confidence, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of the game. The league also emphasizes the importance of fundamental skills such as using both feet, ball control, and strategic play. This approach prepares players for future success, whether they continue with club soccer, join high school teams, or even pursue collegiate opportunities.
The program relies on a strong network of volunteers, including referees who are often high school students or former players who have aged out of the program. These young referees receive training and gain valuable leadership experience while giving back to the sport they love. Many of them continue to be involved in the program long after their playing days, demonstrating the lasting impact of the Jr. Trojans Soccer Club.
Affordability is another crucial aspect of the organization’s mission. The standard registration fee of $110 covers insurance, field usage, and custom uniforms, which include a personalized jersey, shorts, socks, and a bag. To support families and encourage participation, the league offers incentives such as free registration for volunteer coaches’ children. Additionally, no child is ever turned away due to financial hardship; the program provides sponsorship opportunities, and many board members personally fund players in need.
The Board is made up of volunteers who work hard to provide a great program for our youth and dedicate countless hours to make our organization possible. Their commitment ensures the program continues to grow while maintaining its focus on sportsmanship, skill development, and community engagement.
Sponsorships from local businesses play a role in supporting the program. Rather than seeking individual team sponsorships, the league offers businesses the opportunity to sponsor entire divisions, ensuring fairness across the board. While the organization has been fortunate in past seasons and has not actively sought additional sponsorships, it remains open to future opportunities to further reduce costs for families and expand its offerings.
Beyond regular season play, the league fosters a culture of giving back. Recognizing the importance of community involvement, the organization awards scholarships to high school seniors who have dedicated their time to coaching and refereeing within the program. Unlike traditional scholarships based on applications, these awards are given to students who have demonstrated a genuine commitment to youth soccer and community service. Past recipients, such as Kailani Martinez, Paris Coleman, and Jessica Garcia, exemplify the values of the Jr. Trojans Soccer Club by selflessly giving back to the next generation of players.
Each year, the club operates two main seasons: spring and fall. Spring sign-ups open in December, with practices starting in February and games running through May. The fall season begins with sign-ups in July, practices in August, and games concluding by early November. Every team is guaranteed at least ten games per season, with playoffs determining the first and second-place teams, providing a rewarding conclusion for players.
Over the years, the Jr. Trojans Soccer Club has witnessed incredible growth and success, culminating in high school state championships and even collegiate opportunities for some players. The club’s alumni include athletes such as Avery Moore, Emily Lewis, Courtney Vanhouse, and Paris Coleman, who have gone on to compete at the collegiate level. Despite its rapid expansion, the organization remains deeply rooted in its founding principles of respect, sportsmanship, and community support.
Friday nights at Petrack Park have become a hub of excitement and camaraderie, with families gathering to cheer on their young athletes. The electric atmosphere, the dedication of volunteers, and the joy of the players all contribute to a thriving soccer culture in the community. However, with the program’s continued growth comes the challenge of limited field space. The demand for more soccer fields is higher than ever, and the organization is actively advocating for expanded facilities to accommodate the increasing number of participants.
The Jr. Trojans Soccer Club is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. Through the dedication of volunteers, coaches, parents, and players, the organization has created a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the soccer field. As they continue to grow and inspire the next generation of athletes, one thing remains certain—this is more than just soccer; it’s a family, a tradition, and a testament to the power of sports in shaping young lives.
