Johnny Figueroa, like many of his LA teammates, was orphaned. Born in Honduras, he came to the United States as refugee. Johnny spent time in foster care and in group homes before going it on his own and sleeping on the street. Playing soccer, Johnny says, kept him happy, kept him going every day. Shaking his head he recalls sleeping outside and trying to go to school. Even when he was outside, he says, I had a soccer ball. He joined the street soccer team while staying at the transitional housing program where Jovenes Inc team is based.At the Street Soccer, USA Cup Johnny was a clear standout and an obvious selection for the National Team. Coach Andre Marchetti had told Johnny he couldn't participate on the team unless he applied to school and pursued education seriously.
When he got back to LA, he learned that his application for a scholarship to community college had been accepted. In a letter to the organizers of the SSUSA cup Johnny wrote, “I love soccer. I want to play in this tournament to inspire others like me to believe that anything is possible.” Johnny has remained true to his word.He now coaches and counsels other youth of his age through the street soccer program while he pursues his college degree.
