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The Empire Strykers on Tuesday concluded their two-day youth soccer camp at South Fontana Park, where 100 invitees aged 3-7 enjoyed free training under the guidance of Olympic gold medalist and two-time FIFA World Cup veteran Marco Fabián as well as other members of the club’s Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) squad. The momentous event was part of ESPN’s “Take Back Sports” series, powered by Disney Jr., and was held in partnership with ABC7 Los Angeles.
Throughout both days, sessions were led by Strykers players Fabián, Justin Stinson, Andy Reyes, Jorge DeLeon, Alan Perez, Polo Hernandez, Walter Díaz González, Barbaro Shelier and Zahkar Shkidchenko, along with Assistant and Goalkeeper Coach Jesús “Chuy” Molina. The high-profile lineup of coaches introduced some participants to the game for the first time, while others were given their first taste of structured sessions designed by elite professionals. Among the campers were the children of Empire midfielders Fabián and Reyes.
Several Strykers partners — such as Aspire General Insurance and Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling — were on hand to support the players, keep them hydrated, and offer up nutritious snacks during breaks. At the conclusion of the camp, which featured a visit by a life-sized Mickey Mouse, each participant received a complimentary soccer jersey along with other giveaways, capping off two unforgettable days of learning, teamwork and fun.
Marco Fabián spent both Monday and Tuesday working directly with kids, sharing his experience, demonstrating drills, and encouraging young players of all skill levels. The Chivas de Guadalajara legend also took the time to sign autographs and pose for photos, helping create more magical moments for children and their families.
“Providing opportunities like this is central to our mission,” said Empire Strykers Managing Partner Jeff Burum. “We’re especially proud of how young our Fontana campers were and how much fun they had. Kids deserve the chance early in life to discover the joy of sports, build confidence, and experience the positive impact of being part of a team. Being able to provide that free of charge was incredibly rewarding for everyone involved.”
Burum continued, “We’re especially grateful to our outstanding partners — including ABC7 Los Angeles, ESPN and Disney Jr. — for sharing our passion for lifting up the local community and investing in the future of our children. Together, we’re creating experiences that extend far beyond the field and help inspire the next generation.”
With the new MASL campaign kicking off in late 2026, anyone looking to buy Empire Strykers single-game or season tickets should keep an eye out for the official schedule release in the fall. Strykers fan gear is available year-round via our online store.
The Strykers are the premier indoor soccer team in the Inland Empire and one of two top-tier pro indoor soccer teams in California. As a founding member of the MASL, the Empire organization prides itself on fielding one of the best small-sided teams in the world.
If you’re IE-based and looking to compete, you may have found yourself wondering, “Where can I find an indoor soccer league near me?” If so, feel free to reach out. We’re well connected in the area and might just be able to help. High-level players may even have a shot at joining our reserve team, the Empire Jets, and entering the pathway to our senior squad.
