Piedmont Soccer Club is celebrating a milestone that has been years in the making. After a two‑year effort to build a stronger youth program, the club has officially launched a U16 girls' team, the Lady Scorpions, and a U12 boys' team, the Littler Tigers.
A Dream Realized After Years of Planning
The initiative, spearheaded by former Zimbabwe national player Daniel Matangira, reflects the club’s commitment to giving local children a chance to compete at a higher level. Both squads will operate under the club’s umbrella, offering scholarships and resources to families who need financial assistance.
Community Backing Fuels Growth
Community support has been pivotal. The Robertson Family Foundation, the Margaret C. Woodson Foundation, and the Salisbury Foundation of the Carolinas have each contributed grants that fund equipment, travel and tuition. In addition, local businesses such as Carolina Tire Pros have stepped in to sponsor the teams.
Leadership roles have been assigned to emerging players. The Lady Scorpions will be co‑captained by ninth‑grader Sara Taylor Reddick and tenth‑grader Camden Woods, while the Littler Tigers will be led by Mason Mitchell and Rafael Macias. Emily Mitchell, mother of Mason, recalls his passion for the sport since age six and his recent move to Piedmont.
The Lady Scorpions are set to play their first home opener this weekend at North Hills Christian School, a venue that has become a natural home for the club’s growing footprint. The boys’ season is slated to begin in early September, giving coaches ample time to fine‑tune tactics and chemistry.
Families interested in joining can find registration details at piedmontsoccerclub.com, where the club outlines tryout dates, scholarship applications and contact information for coaches.
Looking Ahead
Club leaders say the new teams mark the beginning of a longer journey to nurture talent in Rowan County. With continued community partnership, Piedmont Soccer Club hopes to expand its reach and provide more pathways for young athletes to pursue their goals on and off the field.