A year ago, we launched our publication featuring our local pro sports teams. We celebrate that inaugural issue today in acknowledging how far the newest of those organizations, FC Naples, has come along in their first season since building their new team in our Paradise Coast and greatly adding to the positive elements of our community. We sat down with their CEO, Head Coach, and select players to learn about what they're most thankful for as they approach the end of their first season:
Bob Moreno, CEO: “I’m thankful for our entire team – the players who bring everything they have to the field, our operations staff that brings every game day to life, as well as our season ticket holders, fans, and community partners that have made FC Naples’ inaugural year so successful.”
Coach Matt Poland: “Being a resident of Marco Island, I’m especially thankful that from day one our community has had our back. The energy they bring to every home match makes all the difference!”
Julian Cisneros: "This Thanksgiving, I'm most thankful for my family because they support me in everything that I do; my grandpa shaped a lot of who I am, especially. I'm of course also grateful for the FC Naples community—the fans and our fan club La Barra 239, the sponsors, and everybody that supports us unconditionally—week in and week out."
Brecc Evans: "Everybody in the FC Naples organization has been very welcoming and I've been grateful for that since moving here to SWFL Florida earlier this year. Another thing I'm thankful for is the sunshine nearly every day. We get to train under the sunlight, and it just gives us positive energy. The team is always in good spirits and has good vibes out here at Paradise Coast Sports Complex."
Ian Garrett: "My family being here in Florida close by is truly a blessing. I also lived apart from my girlfriend for many years previously, so to have her living with me here is truly amazing. Can't beat family and football!"
Lalo Delgado: "What I'm most thankful for is the ownership and the staff that have the confidence of bringing me out here to beautiful Naples. Also, the relationships we've forged across the whole team, after only having met a few months ago, is incredible. Lastly, the constant support of our fan club, La Barra, has been amazing -they're out here every single game day, playing music and cheering for us—the community support has been fantastic—I think we have the best fans in the league!"