Foundation
Goshen City FC was founded in the spring of 2022 by Henrique Eichenberger, who at the time was a college student at Goshen College. Thanks to the support of the President of Goshen College, Rebecca Stoltzfus, Henrique was able to connect with the Mayor of Goshen, Jim Alvarez, and other key community members who helped him turn his vision into a reality.
Eichenberger’s vision was to establish a team that could compete at a high level, while also contributing to the community and inspiring the next generation of soccer players. To be a part of Goshen City FC, players are required to do at least one community service project to give back to the community. The club also partners with non-profit organizations to use its players as volunteers and contribute to the greater good of the community.
The club’s founding was made possible through the support and guidance of Jeremy Stutsman, the Mayor of Goshen, who helped Eichenberger organize the project. In addition, Goshen College’s Business Department provided the necessary tools and knowledge to start the business, and allowed the club to use their soccer fields for home games.
Henrique received invaluable support from Jim Alvarez’s network, which included Everence Bank, Interra, and others. Gilberto Perez played a crucial role in organizing Henrique’s ideas. Additionally, Matias da Fonseca was instrumental in handling social media and marketing, while Tylor Born, the head coach, was pivotal in organizing tryouts, connecting with local soccer players, and establishing relationships with important members of the local soccer community. Goshen City FC would not have come to fruition without their unwavering support.
Although he graduated last semester, Henrique began this project while he was still a student at Goshen College. Today, Goshen City FC is more than just a soccer team – it’s a community-oriented organization that strives to make a positive impact both on and off the field. As a way to give back to the community, Goshen City FC allows children under 12 years old to watch their games for free. The club also has players walking with kids before each home game to inspire the younger generation to love soccer as much as they do.