About NextKick
The story behind NextKick
NextKick started with a simple idea close to home.
Our story
The Story Behind NextKick
As a father, Dr. Mohanad Ali saw his own children needing more opportunities to get outside, stay active, play, and develop their personalities through sport. He realized that soccer could offer much more than physical activity—it could teach children confidence, teamwork, discipline, and how to work together.
That idea grew into a conversation with other fathers who saw the same need in their children and in the community.
Together, they created NextKick Youth Foundation with a shared vision: to give children ages 6–16 a place where they can play, grow, build confidence, and become part of a supportive community.
At NextKick, soccer is more than a game. It's a way to help children grow on the field and in life.
Mission
NextKick exists to create opportunities for children ages 6–16 to be active, play soccer, build confidence, develop positive character, and grow through sport in a supportive family and community environment.
Vision
A community where every child has the opportunity to be active, play, build confidence and character, learn teamwork, and grow in a supportive environment.
Who we serve
Children ages 6–16, and their families
NextKick serves children and youth ages 6 to 16, along with the parents, siblings, and neighbors who make up the community around them.
We are based in Orange County, California. Our focus is simple: give kids opportunities to be active, take part in sport, develop their personalities, build confidence, and learn positive life skills.
Why soccer
Soccer is the vehicle. Youth development is the purpose.
We are not only teaching children how to play soccer. We are using soccer to help children grow as people.
A team practice is a small version of life. You show up on time. You listen. You try, fail, and try again. You depend on others and they depend on you. Through this, children can develop:
- Confidence
- Discipline
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Communication
- Responsibility
- Resilience
- Healthy habits
- Positive relationships
- A sense of belonging
Family & community
Families are part of the team
Parents and families are an important part of a child's development. We build NextKick so families feel welcome — on the sideline, at events, and in the decisions that shape the organization.
Fun
Children should enjoy being active, playing soccer, learning new things, and being part of a team.
Family
Parents and families are an important part of a child's development and of the NextKick community.
Confidence
Through sport, children can develop confidence, courage, discipline, and belief in themselves.
Want to be part of NextKick?
Parents, volunteers, coaches, and community partners all have a place here.