OUR
STORY
The United Soccer Talents Foundation’s mission is to change the lives of children and youth from low-income families through the transformative power of high-quality soccer training and essential values. Located in the heart of Orange County, California, the foundation is more than just a place of learning; it’s a vibrant community driven by passion and commitment. The team comprises experienced soccer coaches and specialists in human development, social services, and audiovisual production. They are dedicated to providing exceptional soccer training to those who need it most, ensuring that each participant has the opportunity to excel academically and potentially advance to professional play.
For over a decade, they have been training children and young adults year-round, fostering their growth and development with unwavering dedication. At UST Foundation, they are committed to nurturing integrity, personal growth, and leadership, empowering participants to reach their full potential both on and off the field. They strive to be a beacon of hope and positive change, helping every young person realize their dreams and achieve greatness.
The United Soccer Talents Foundation has its roots deeply embedded in the personal journey of the Balderas family. The story began with Ricardo and Geovanny Balderas, who, driven by their own challenging experiences, envisioned a foundation that could offer the guidance and opportunities they once sought.
Raised by their single mother, Ricardo and Geovanny understood the struggles of navigating life without ample resources. Their shared experiences and the support they received growing up fueled their passion to create a foundation dedicated to helping others. In their quest to give back, they founded the United Soccer Talents Foundation, determined to provide mentorship, guidance, and real opportunities for success in both soccer and life.
Ricardo Balderas, a former professional soccer player with a storied career spanning over 15 years across teams in Mexico, Bolivia, Argentina, Uruguay, and the United States, won two consecutive championships with the Pumas team in Mexico under the leadership of the legendary Real Madrid player Hugo Sánchez. Ricardo brings over 11 years of continuous expertise as a Head Coach and talent developer, recognized for his exceptional coaching skills and leadership in the field. His achievements include being awarded the Best Coach of the West Region for the NCCAA.
Geovanny Balderas, is a dedicated soccer coach and mentor who has made it his mission to develop players into the best versions of themselves, both on and off the pitch. His coaching philosophy combines a professional work ethic, strategic expertise, and a passion for nurturing young talent. He has honed his coaching knowledge by studying professional teams in Spain, Argentina, Uruguay, Mexico, and the U.S., gaining valuable insights into strategies, techniques, and player development from some of the world’s most competitive soccer cultures.
Geovanny’s accomplishments include leading the OC Stars team to victory in the Adriana's Insurance Pro Cup, where they triumphed over Dorados, a professional MX league team. His commitment to player development has also resulted in sending over 100 players worldwide to try out with professional teams, providing them with invaluable opportunities to pursue their dreams in soccer.
In addition to his soccer career, Geovanny is a multi-award-winning filmmaker whose work has been celebrated in countries such as the U.S., the UK, Germany, Switzerland, France, and Japan. His passion for media arts and storytelling has led to a distinguished career in television, directing major shows in Mexico and the U.S. Geovanny’s love for both soccer and filmmaking allows him to bring a unique creative vision to his endeavors, inspiring and empowering youth. His latest project, Nextars, is a groundbreaking soccer reality show designed to help amateur players pursue their dream of being signed by a professional team, merging his two passions to create life-changing opportunities.
As the foundation took shape, the rest of the Balderas family joined the mission, each contributing their unique strengths. Edgar Balderas, a graduate of the UST youth teams who went on to play professionally in the Ascenso MX league, brought fresh energy and expertise in training and conditioning. His dual experience as both a player and a trainer has been invaluable in developing top-notch programs for aspiring athletes.
Roy Balderas, Edgar’s father, added his extensive coaching experience and strong leadership qualities to the mix. His profound understanding of the game and player development has enriched the foundation’s coaching philosophy, creating a nurturing yet competitive environment for growth.
Marco Balderas, with his degree in Information Technology and excellence in organization and customer service, has been pivotal in ensuring smooth operations and client satisfaction. His adept management of day-to-day logistics has been crucial in maintaining the foundation’s efficiency and effectiveness.
The foundation’s journey would not be complete without the unwavering support of their beloved mother, María Ester Ortiz, who has been its heart and soul. As the foundation’s most devoted supporter, her boundless love and encouragement have been the driving force behind every step forward. Her emotional support and dedication have been indispensable to the foundation’s success and ongoing growth.
The Balderas family, along with other family members, friends, volunteers, UST staff, members, players, and supportive parents, have all played crucial roles in this endeavor. Each has generously contributed their time, energy, and resources, amplifying the foundation’s impact and extending its reach. Integral to this success are the dedicated donors, whose vital support completes the circle of the mission and drives ongoing achievements. The collective effort and unwavering commitment have built a vibrant community and ignited a powerful movement dedicated to making a profound and lasting difference through soccer.
This work, while maintaining its focus on the U.S., has now started to expand to Mexico, thanks to the Balderas family members who have joined and contributed their expertise and passion. Their involvement has broadened the foundation's impact and allowed it to reach even more communities.
United in purpose, we are harnessing support, enhancing lives, and providing tools and opportunities to build a brighter, more successful future and a lasting impact in our society.
We take immense pride in our all-women media production team,
At United Soccer Talents Foundation
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A true reflection of creativity, talent, and dedication