SMUSA Founders
Rachel Gunther and Judy Holstein
Rachel Gunther and Judy D. Holstein crossed paths 8 years ago when both their sons landed on the same competitive soccer team in Southern California. After watching their sons’ team’s success against local and state competition, they accepted an invitation to play in the prestigious Marly le Roi International Youth Tournament in France.
The team had a successful run but the women knew they could produce better results. They challenged themselves to create a stronger team with selected players as well as coaches from the USA who would be able to train the boys to compete with the Europeans. This effort resulted in the birth of the California Soccer Club. The new team did so well playing in games abroad, they either won the championship or never finished less than 4th place. Soon, they were regular invitees to various elite tournaments all over Europe.
While watching their children play hundreds of soccer games and attending dozens of tournaments throughout the years, the moms developed a passion for the sport and became dedicated youth sports advocates. These accomplished women continue devoting their time and energy to advancing the causes important to soccer players, parents and families everywhere. Their efforts have also advanced the sport of soccer in America and its standing in the international soccer community.
The moms currently spend many hours organizing international “friendlies,” tournament development, arranging venues, hospitality and cultural exchange for athletes from Norway, Germany, Netherlands, France, Belgium, Japan, Korea and Canada. They are both volunteers for U.S. Soccer as well as associates of the European Soccer Network.
Rachel and Judy have also co-founded Soccer Moms USA as well as written Soccer Mom Secrets, a novel inspired by their experiences and past adventures. Hear more about SMUSA and what the moms are up to by listening to their interactive internet broadcast called: “Soccer Mom Talk.”
During speaking engagements, they enjoy discussing a variety of timely soccer topics such as:
- • Is Your Child Really Ready for the Next Level of Soccer? Tell Tale Signs to Look Out For!
- • The Club Soccer Experience…. And it’s Impact on Family Dynamics.
- • Playing Soccer Abroad – Is It Really Worth It?
To listen to the talkcast or to schedule Rachel and Judy as speakers, please visit their website:
