Deputy Ivan Lopez, a veteran of the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department, launched the Juventus Crew earlier this year, drawing direct inspiration from the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team, which includes several colleagues from the department’s Main Jail, now trains and competes in the nearby city of Gilroy, turning a simple soccer hobby into a structured community project.
More than a game
For Sgt. David Dominguez, the sport has become a conduit for building trust and easing the pressures of daily law‑enforcement duties. Fellow teammate Deputy Richard Diaz, a 51‑year‑old Marine Corps veteran, is stepping onto the pitch for the first time, embracing the physical challenge as a fresh way to stay engaged with his peers.
Deputy Ignacio Oseguera proudly displays the department’s official World Cup badge on his uniform, a small but symbolic nod to the tournament that unites the squad. The players say the rigorous matches not only sharpen their footwork but also keep them in the peak physical condition required for their demanding day‑to‑day responsibilities.
A record of losses, a future of hope
Although the Juventus Crew currently sits with a losing record in their local league, the members remain upbeat and eager. As the World Cup draws nearer, they look forward to seeing the global spectacle arrive in their own backyard, confident that the experience will further strengthen the bonds they have forged on and off the field.