The positive impact of KIS often touches entire families -- just ask Juan Jr., his brothers, mother and father.  KIS has been a part of Juan’s life for as long as he can remember.  Now a high school sophomore, he was encouraged by his father, Juan Sr., to start participating in KIS at the age of six.  Over the years playing soccer and basketball as well as during his swimming lessons, Juan has made friends, learned how to set goals and discovered the rewards of helping others. 

Following in the footsteps of his mother, Jackeline, and father who both coach for KIS, Juan has started coaching and mentoring younger kids in soccer including his ten year old brother Victor.  At age five, Kobe is the latest member of the family to join the KIS team.    Juan is proud of his involvement with KIS and still looks up to his soccer mentor Edgar, who coached him for over six years. It was Edgar who introduced Juan to the World Cup, which has given Juan a broad and global understanding of the sport. His favorite team is Portugal, while his brother Victor roots for Barcelona and Germany!   

Juan’s parents credit KIS for his increased focus in school and better grades. Looking to his future, Juan plans to go to the Fashion Institute of Technology in Los Angeles while continuing his coaching and involvement in KIS.  Once he graduates, he wants to pursue a career as a graphic designer.  “Kids In Sports is a big family,” said Jackeline. “Beyond the accessibility of the sports programs, these kids are a part of a supportive community of coaches, mentors and parents that care about each kid’s well-being and future.”