In its 20 years, Alianza de Futbol has benefited from many corporate partners helping drive grassroots marketing and outreach strategies to boost engagement and impact in Hispanic communities across the United States.
One of those valued partners is Ford Motor Company, which, since 2021, has sponsored Ford Copita Alianza—the largest Hispanic youth soccer tournament in the country, impacting more than 47,000 athletes annually.
In addition to their title sponsorship, Ford increased their commitment to the Alianza de Futbol community in 2023 through their support of the Ford Qué Golazo de Grants initiative benefitting young Hispanic athletes and their families.
The Ford Qué Golazo de Grants program awards $5,000 grants to 10 student-athletes, one at each stop of the Alianza de Futbol tour. Participants ages 14-18 were invited to submit a video explaining why they deserve one of the grants and how they plan to use the funds to help reach their athletic and educational goals.
Additionally, recipients are admitted to ACCESS U, a non-profit organization designed to help underserved Hispanic and Black players and their families achieve their goals of attending college and playing soccer.
Ford: Helping Break Down Barriers
Said Bryan Guldi, Ford Experiential Marketing Manager, on the partnership and its impact within the Hispanic community:
“This partnership has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve been part of. It’s inspiring to see these young student-athletes’ eyes light up when they talk about their love for soccer. Being able to help remove some of the financial barriers they face so they can pursue their dreams is incredibly fulfilling.”
Guldi continued: “The partnership between Ford and Alianza de Futbol has been tremendously impactful for the Hispanic community. Countless boys and girls have been given the opportunity to play the sport they love in professionally-run events without the costs typically associated with doing so. Additionally, Ford is breaking down the barriers for access and opportunity, helping to facilitate mobility with financial assistance for college.”
Dreams Becoming Reality Thanks to Grant
For Cruz Martinez, a 2023 recipient, receiving the grant was a way to honor his father’s unwavering support as he continues his journey on and off the field.
“I remember the drive home after being awarded the grant and seeing the pride in my father’s eyes,” Martinez said. “This $5,000 helps me continue working hard to make my dreams a reality and honor the sacrifices my family has made to provide us with a better life.”
Hear from Martinez on the Ford and Ford Latino Instagram pages, or watch the full feature below.
2024 Ford Qué Golazo de Grants Winners
Congratulations to this year’s winners across eight Alianza de Futbol tour stops and the Allstate Sueño Alianza National Showcase! Stay tuned to Alianza and Ford Latino’s social channels for announcements regarding next year’s Ford Qué Golazo de Grants program.
- Sophia Cerda (Dallas)
- Edward Flores (San Antonio)
- Jesus Gachupin (Colorado Springs)
- Matheo Garcia (Chicago)
- Lubriza Alfaro (New York)
- Janelle Torres (Los Angeles)
- Arlin Guzman (San Jose)
- Mandalyn Granillo (El Paso)
- Alyssa Lopez (National Showcase)
- Evan Guerrero (National Showcase)
