As a youngster growing up in Wichita, Chris Castaneda was drawn to soccer at an early age. The next-to-youngest of seven children, he played his heart out in games at Cloud Elementary School from second to fifth grade, but was unable to continue due to financial constraints at home.

After returning to the soccer field himself at age 17 through participation in adult leagues, the now-aspiring sports doctor and Wichita State University junior is giving marginalized children ages 9–16 the opportunity to experience what it feels like to be part of a team, without worrying about having the rug pulled out from under them — a chance to pursue their passion without limitation. 

His youth club soccer program called Underground FC makes it possible for area youngsters — most of whom have never played organized soccer before — to compete and learn the game without cost to them or their families. Now three youth teams strong, Castaneda and his assistant coach give their time freely to teach the game and its life lessons of camaraderie, competition and friendship to help the fledgling athletes blossom into confident, successful individuals.

“I felt like I had unfinished business,” Castaneda said. “When I got older, the option to play soccer went away because of finances. I lost something I really enjoyed. After high school, I decided to pick the sport back up and started as a YMCA volunteer coach and wanted to tap into the community. That’s where the non-profit soccer club started.”

Launched in 2020, the program has been heartily embraced by players, their families, and the community at large. To date, all 49 players who have committed to the program are still active in it. Teams compete at the YMCA and Stryker Sports Complex, at levels ranging from recreational to intermediate to competitive soccer. Games at Stryker are the most competitive, with high-dollar club-soccer opponents among the weekly competition.

Equipment is provided by the coaches, with community donations covering uniforms and player fees. Community support from area businesses and individuals demonstrates the strong buy-in locally, Castaneda said. “Every time I’ve asked for a sponsorship, I’ve gotten it,” he said. “A lot of times I’ve gotten offers without having to ask.”

To participate, players must maintain a 3.2 grade point average in school. Parental involvement is also key, though the coaches are happy to provide players with rides to practices and games when needed. Though all three teams play in boys’ divisions, the program is open to boys and girls in Wichita and surrounding communities who face economic challenges. 

Though composed largely of newcomers to the game, Castaneda said players with experience are equally welcome to participate and share their skill sets with their less-experienced teammates. Despite giving away years of playing experience in most instances, the Underground FC teams are quite competitive, benefitting from the one-on-one instruction provided by the two coaches. But winning games is only part of the equation, Castaneda said.

“The biggest takeaway is trying to teach and inspire them,” he said. “The hope is that they continue, share the same vision we have, and show others that no obstacle is too big. What I find most satisfying is showing them that, if you have a hiccup in front of you due to finances, there is always a way around that. It’s just a matter of going forward and getting that support.”