Massive thanks to all of the businesses (listed below) who sponsored their time, service, products, & profits to our ‘Play for Aaron’ charity event that took place over the weekend of the 4th & 5th of January, 2014. Please help give back to these businesses and award their generosity by making an effort to purchase from their stores or hire their services. Well done all! Couldn’t have done it without you!

Lola’s 7 Up Market & Deli, Carlsbad – (760) 434-2191, 3292 Roosevelt St, Carlsbad, 92008
Ethan Novak & La Costa Roasting Company – http://www.lacostacoffee.com/
Crust Pizzeria, Carlsbad – http://crustpizzeria.com/
Smart and Final, Encinitas – http://www.smartandfinal.com/
Sprouts, Carlsbad, S. Carlsbad & Encinitas – http://sprouts.com/
Roberto’s Taco Shop Encinitas Blvd – http://www.robertos.us/
Beach Break Cafe, S. Oceanside – http://beachbreakcafe.menutoeat.com/
Albertson’s, La Costa – http://www.albertsons.com/
Ralph’s, Poinsettia – https://www.ralphs.com/
Flippin Pizza – http://flippinpizza.com/
Rita’s Italian Ice – http://ritascarlsbad.com/
Kona Ice – http://www.kona-ice.com/
adidas (Frank Battle) – http://www.adidas.com/us/
Prime Sports (Mike Mercuriali) – http://www.myprimesports.com/
TaylorMade Golf – http://taylormadegolf.com/
Logo Product Experts (LPE) – http://www.lpeusa.com/
Flip4flops – http://www.flips4flops.com/
Jump-N-Ride, Encinitas – http://www.jumpnride.com/

Below is a letter of thanks from the Loy family to everyone that was involved in the ‘Play for Aaron’ weekend. You all should be very proud. Touching indeed!

Playing competitive soccer is a serious commitment on the part of player and family. When the soccer club’s goals are focused on the players and aligned with family values, it is intensely rewarding, such as Aaron and we experienced. For seven years, Aaron was proud to play for Lightning teams where he grew immensely as a player and as a responsible, committed young person guided by coaches he deeply respected. Committing to a high level of performance, his teammates developed strong bonds with each other, as did our families who spent many hours together on the sidelines. Although Aaron had moved on to college this fall, his soccer family came together in a heartwarming and powerful display of support and caring in the Play For Aaron event.

(above: Aaron’s ex LCC teammates in black and his ex Lightning teammates in red picture before kick off in the ‘Play for Aaron’ Showcase Game)

Aaron was amazed and honored to see so many of his former teammates and friends, and those who never met him, joining together as a soccer “family” to help him through his tough journey recovering from meningitis. It only reinforces our belief that the club truly does put players first, and that CUFC staff, players, and families are exceptional. We owe thanks to so many who donated food, t-shirts, and auction items, to those who volunteered to man booths or referee, to those who participated or cheered on their players. The pictures, messages, and videos were so uplifting to Aaron, and for that we are so grateful! A special thanks to the wonderfully organized Janie Fitzsimons and her crew, and inspirational coaches Paddy Trolan and Shawn Koutahi who had the idea to make it happen. We greatly appreciate the CUFC directors who endorsed the project. Not only has Aaron benefited greatly from his years developing ball skills and character from his club coaches, but he will continue to benefit from his club’s generosity as he faces a long road to recovery. The CUFC made a significant impact on the level of resources and technology that Aaron can access in the future. Who knows, he may be back on the soccer fields yet! We cannot thank you enough for what you have done for Aaron.

The Loy Family