On Friday, July 25 at 10:00 AM, Franklin County Soccer Club (FCSC) took a powerful step forward in its mission to grow the game and serve the community — by breaking ground on a full-size natural grass soccer field at New Haven City Park.

Over 60 attendees, including Mayor David Luecke, members of the New Haven City Board of Aldermen, the Park Board, business leaders, families, and youth players, came together for a morning of gratitude, purpose, and celebration.

Community, Faith, and Purpose at the Center

The ceremony began with opening remarks from Laura Kohnen, President of the New Haven Chamber of Commerce, who welcomed guests and introduced FCSC President and Executive Director Alex J. Moraes. Moraes reflected on the vision behind the project and the importance of giving back to the community that raised so many of us.

In a moment that set the tone for the entire project, the field and its future were prayerfully dedicated to the Lord. Pastor Daniel Cargill of Memorial Baptist Church and Pastor John Wagner of First Christian Church of Union each offered a powerful prayer, asking for blessing, safety, and long-term impact on the lives of local youth through sport.

A Ribbon Cut, A Dream in Motion

The ceremony continued with a formal ribbon cutting, where FCSC leaders, city officials, and community members stood side-by-side behind the ribbon at the dig site. With smiles and celebration, the ribbon was cut — a symbolic start to a project that will serve athletes and families for generations.

Moments later, shovels hit the dirt in the official groundbreaking photo, marking the beginning of field construction and the realization of a shared dream.

Special Thanks

This milestone would not have been possible without the support, generosity, and collaboration of key partners. FCSC extends its deepest thanks to:

• The Hebbeler Family — whose generous donation helped bring this project to life
• Muddy Boots Services — for their hands-on support and local commitment
• Twin Oaks Landscaping — for expertise and partnership in leading the excavation
• Excelsior Engineering — for providing critical design and engineering guidance
• Crate — for capturing this memorable moment

To the City of New Haven, the Park Board, and the many families and players who joined us — thank you for believing in this vision. This field is for you.

Looking Ahead

The new field will be the first full-size municipal soccer field in New Haven — and a long-term home for the development of young athletes in Franklin County. As construction begins, FCSC remains committed to its mission: to provide competitive, high-quality soccer rooted in faith, integrity, and community.

Help Us Light the Way

The field is underway — but we need your help to finish strong. Our next goal is to bring electricity to the field to support lighting, training equipment, and future events.

• Your donation will help us create a space that’s safer, more accessible, and ready for evening practices and games.
• 👉 Click here to donate and be part of building something lasting for Franklin County

Together, we can light the way for the next generation of players.

Franklin County Sports Club
Building more than players. Building community.

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