Soccer is a sport that holds a special place in many hearts around the world. Whether you call it soccer or football, the game has a way of bringing people together and creating lasting memories. However, for many women, the football pitch can be an intimidating space with limited opportunities to play. This is where Tianna Rodriguez and her team, Café Com Leite, come in.
Tianna’s vision for Café Com Leite is simple yet powerful – to create a space where women can come together to have fun, get some exercise, and most importantly, feel free from fear and shame. What started as a small gathering has now grown into a full-fledged soccer team with over 22 dedicated players. The team is made up of individuals from various backgrounds who share a love for the game and a desire to play without judgment.
The name Café Com Leite, which means coffee with milk in Portuguese, was chosen as a nod to the team’s diverse Latino roots and their shared love for the drink. It symbolizes the inclusive and welcoming nature of the team, where everyone is encouraged to join in, regardless of their skill level or experience. Tianna’s inspiration for starting the team came from her childhood experiences playing soccer with her father and his friends. She wanted to recreate that sense of community and joy that she felt on the field growing up.
Inclusivity is at the core of Café Com Leite, with the team embracing players of all backgrounds and experience levels. Unlike traditional teams with fixed rosters, Café Com Leite welcomes newcomers at every practice, creating a space where everyone is encouraged to participate and learn. Tianna believes that celebrating the success of women in sports is essential to inspiring others to get involved and excel in their own athletic endeavors.
Starting a grassroots soccer team comes with its challenges, one of the biggest being coordinating schedules and commitments. However, Tianna and her team understand the importance of flexibility and inclusivity, allowing everyone to participate at their own pace. Looking ahead, Tianna envisions Café Com Leite growing into a competitive league, where players can test their skills against other teams on a regular basis. She hopes to create a supportive environment that will prepare players for organized competitions in the near future.
As Café Com Leite continues to evolve and grow, one thing remains clear – the team is more than just a soccer club. It is a community of individuals who share a passion for the game and a desire to have fun, stay active, and build lasting friendships along the way. With Tianna’s leadership and the team’s dedication, the future looks bright for Café Com Leite and the women who find joy and empowerment on the soccer field.