The Taft Union High School soccer squad was gearing up for another season when an unexpected invitation arrived: a trip to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Los Angeles. The team will attend the June 15 match between Iran and New Zealand, a gesture made possible by California Resources Corporation.
Junior midfielder Carlos Bejarano described his reaction as a mix of shock and exhilaration, noting that the experience would cement the team's already tight bonds and give them a memory that will last a lifetime.
Coach Roberto Gonzalez seized the moment, emphasizing that the team's ability to seize the unexpected was a testament to their hard work, unity, and the belief that they could achieve the extraordinary.
A Community‑Driven Celebration
California Resources Corporation, the sponsor behind the surprise, also distributed World Cup tickets to youngsters at the Boys and Girls Club in Bakersfield. CRC CEO Francisco Leon, who migrated from Mexico as a child, used the occasion to urge students to look beyond their current circumstances and imagine the careers they could pursue.
The excitement extends beyond Taft, as the 2026 tournament will officially open on June 11 with a clash between Mexico and South Africa, setting the stage for a global celebration of the sport.