Billy Hansen’s journey in soccer began on the sandlots of Manhattan Beach, where he first touched a ball at age seven. After a stint playing professionally for the Los Angeles Heat and Santo FC in Brazil, he returned to Southern California to coach his daughter’s team. Watching the financial barriers that kept many talented youngsters off the pitch, Hansen realized that the cost of club soccer — often exceeding $3,000 a year — was a gatekeeper for aspiring athletes from underserved neighborhoods.
Founding Soccer Is For All
In response, Hansen launched SIFA (Soccer Is For All) to sponsor players who could not afford those fees. What started as personal payments for a handful of kids quickly grew into a structured program that now supports nearly 100 participants across the Los Angeles basin. SIFA’s mission extends beyond the field, emphasizing mentorship, education and pathways to higher education for first‑generation college students.
The organization’s impact is measurable: 51 players have earned college degrees, and several have progressed to semi‑professional competition. SIFA’s treasurer, Carol Kolinkovich, notes that the program’s focus on holistic development — combining soccer training with academic support — creates a stable environment, especially vital during crises such as the COVID‑19 pandemic.
Stories from the Field
Among the alumni, Izabella Munoz now competes for Scorpions FC, while Vy Le credits SIFA with giving her a sense of belonging during isolation. Diana Ferman’s daughter Hazel secured a spot at East Los Angeles College thanks to the program’s scholarship pipeline. These narratives illustrate how access to sport can translate into academic achievement and community leadership.
Looking Ahead
With endorsements from local coaches like Jeff Joyner of Long Beach State women’s soccer, SIFA plans to expand its reach across the South Bay and beyond, seeking partnerships that can fund additional slots and broaden mentorship initiatives. Hansen remains committed to his original vision: a soccer field that serves as a launchpad for both athletic and educational aspirations.