City SC Staff pictured with Sarah Rudder from the ‘Cath A Lift Fund’ (center)
City SC Carlsbad hosted the 12th annual Giving Back Friendlies event on January 3, 2026, raising a total of $7,406.02 for this year’s beneficiary, Catch A Lift Fund.
The Friendlies are City SC’s biggest annual community fundraiser. Each year, the club selects a cause or organization to support and dedicates a weekend of friendly matches to raising funds for the chosen recipient. Since its inception in 2014, the Giving Back Friendlies have raised more than $138,130.46 for a wide variety of worthy causes, ranging from local families in need to organizations doing life-changing – and in some cases – life-saving work in the community.
This year’s beneficiary, Catch A Lift Fund, was founded by the sister and best friend of Army Cpl. Christopher Coffland, who was killed in action in Afghanistan. Guided by Chris’ belief that fitness unlocks human potential – mentally, physically, and emotionally – Catch A Lift Fund was created with a mission to restore purpose to combat-injured veterans. The organization helps veterans return to a healthy lifestyle through one-on-one coaching, personalized fitness plans, nutritional guidance, and mental wellness support.
“Every year, we use this opportunity to give back to local charities and people in need within the community, and I’m really excited about this year’s recipient,” said City SC Executive Director of Operations Michael Duggan. “It all came about through our recreational coach, Sarah Rudder, who has been part of the club for 10 years and has also been part of this nonprofit organization for 10 years as well.”
“The main mission for Catch A Lift is to help enable post-9/11 combat-injured veterans to recover and rehabilitate through physical fitness, support, and motivation,” said Catch A Lift Fund Coach Leo Librando. “Thank you for your supporting donations to Catch A Lift. With your support, we can continue helping our veterans and community on their journey toward health and fitness,” added Catch A Lift Fund Board Member Carnell Martin.
Many thanks to all of our City SC players, parents, team managers, coaches, and staff who support this event every year, as well as to those who volunteered to referee games, staff donation tables, and assist with field setup and breakdown. 100% of the funds raised from this event go directly to Catch A Lift Fund to support the important work they are doing to help combat-injured veterans rebuild their lives through nutrition, fitness, emotional wellness, and community.
Events like the Giving Back Friendlies truly define our club and community spirit. We really appreciate your help and know that Catch A Lift Fund greatly appreciates the support!
