Local teen soccer stars going global

As World Cup popularity grows in the United States, so does youth soccer.

“I would like to at least some part in pro and play,” says JJ Flowers, member of the SoCal United. 

Teammate Matt Miller adds, “To play professional for just any professional team.”

SoCal United is 14 members who have traveled to compete across the country.

“We went to a qualifier in San Francisco and after that we won that we went to Kansas City. In the semi finals we played the number one team from Boston and we beat them so we played Chivas, who was probably the number one team in the nation and we beat them in penalty kicks and it was really crazy and a great win for us,” said Flowers.

Next, the team kicks their game to the next level as they prepare to travel to Rome to represent the United States in the Volkswagen Junior Masters.

“It's a once and a life time chance that not many kids get,” says Andrew Miranda.

Adds Flowers, “A lot of the teams are like pro teams just younger ages, just academy, so it's going to be really hard. It's going to be a good challenge and we need it to ready up for other tournaments that we have.”

There is more to look forward to than great soccer:

“Spaghetti and pizza,” says Miranda.

“Eating their pizza and pasta. I know that's what they are known for,” says Flowers.

“The pizza. I want some pizza and pasta,” says Miller.