Street Soccer USA National, Marlon Alexander—Los Angeles, CA (Striker, Goalkeeper)

Marlon Alexander—Los Angeles, CA (Striker, Goalkeeper)

Marlon with Liverpool's David Ngog when he and friend

 Emmerson Boyce visited SSLA

Marlon’s story begins in Guatemala. As a child, he lived in poverty without access to formal education, oftentimes living on the streets.  After being child-trafficked to the States and being forced into child labor, he was uncovered in a federal raid, he entered the foster care system and aged out into the shelter. He was unsuccessful in school and was depressed until he found the Street Soccer LA team. Now, at 18, Marlon’s life is on a new, positive path.

“This program has awakened in me a dream . . . I feel that being a member of this team brings new challenges and new goals; now I believe that I can do anything as long I put my mind into it.”- Marlon Alexander



Marlon's high school teacher says there is clear dividing line between Marlon before playing soccer, and Marlon after. His hygiene in proved, he was smiling and talkative, she shared. "Something had clearly changed so I asked him," she said. "I am part of a soccer team," he said.

Street Soccer LA is run in partnership with Jovenes, Inc. Former Street Soccer USA National Captain (2008), Johnny Figueroa coaches the team. Jovenes, Inc., located in the Boyle Heights neighborhood serves homeless teens, providing permanent and transitional housing in addition to an array of other support services.

Make an online donation during the month of September and receive a free, red, SSUSA supporters' bracelet.