As JAXUSL continues to grow USL pro soccer in North East Florida, we’d like to show our appreciation and shine a light on the people and organizations that have already laid the foundation for soccer in our region with our Spotlight on Youth Soccer series
While progress is often viewed as a grandiose project, focusing on a smaller scale can often produce great results as well, something that can be seen with the local organization Good Lad Soccer.
Ireland native Gavin Carlin was first introduced to the First Coast when he attended Jacksonville University, playing as a goalkeeper on the Dolphins’ men’s soccer team. He was already well familiar with the sport, though, spending time during his teen years at West Bromwich Albion’s academy in England.
Following his time at JU, Carlin immediately inserted himself into the local youth soccer scene. While doing this, he realized the growing need for specialized training for many of the players. This inspired him to start his first soccer camp, opting for an indoor setting off of Beach Boulevard to combat the Florida heat.
And thus, Good Lad Soccer was born. The organization primarily focuses on training, extended day programs, tournaments and summer camps. It’s this individual attention and one-on-one approach that makes them stand out. Starting the venture was a risk, but Carlin is very grateful for the reception that Good Lad Soccer has enjoyed in Jacksonville.
“Word of mouth has helped more than any [online] ads,” Carlin said. “The public support has been the biggest help and the biggest pleasure to see.”
Jacksonville may not be America’s most traditional soccer market, but Carlin and Good Lad Soccer have played a key role in the sport’s growth in the area. As someone who created a soccer startup of his own, the proud Irishman admires what JAXUSL is doing in bringing professional soccer to the First Coast.
“It’s only a positive that JAXUSL is coming to the area and it seems that a lot of good people are in the right spot,” Carlin said. “As an Irish man living in America, a can-do place with a can-do attitude, I know they want to make it happen and this is the country to make it happen.”
Professional soccer on its own is not enough to transform the beautiful game in the United States. The grassroots level, where Good Lad Soccer can be found, is critical for establishing and nurturing a developmental system.
Carlin has already seen the game change massively since arriving in the States. He recalls times where he was shocked to see an English Premier League match on television. Now, a professional soccer club is coming to that very city.
“Soccer is only moving in one direction in this country and that’s definitely an upward trajectory,” Carlin said.
While soccer is benefiting from these trends, local communities can benefit from it as well. Getting kids into the sport can help give them not only an outlet for activity and exercise, but a lifelong hobby. With the way things are going, this symbiotic relationship between soccer and local communities can grow even further.
“With [JAXUSL] bringing a pro team, they can actually see pro-level soccer not just on the TV, but in their own backyard as well,” Carlin said. “We’re moving in the right direction.”
Summer may be Good Lad Soccer’s busy season, but they’re not entirely done. In December, they will be hosting a striker and goalkeeper camp for all of your final-third needs.
Those looking for more information can visit Good Lad Soccer’s website and contact Carlin at (904)240-2572 and Gavin@GoodLadSoccer.com.
View more images from Good Lad Soccer below.
