They teamed up to help build each other’s homes—now they’ve teamed up to score some goals.
Homeowners at Brenkle Court, the first project developed by local affordable housing non-profit Our Town St. Helena, have forged a new alliance through a common interest in soccer.
The team members first met when they were selected to help build and later live at Brenkle Court. During the more than 4,000 hours they worked together constructing each other’s homes, many bonded over their love of soccer.
“When we were building [our homes], we used to talk about making a soccer team or getting together to play soccer at the park because we all shared that we love to play,” said Anai Ortiz, who lives in Brenkle Court with her two sons.
Ortiz serves as team manager for “Brenkle Court FC.” She recruited team members from five of the eight homes to play indoor soccer.
Last month, the team played in the 28th Annual Holiday Cup at Epicenter Sports City in Santa Rosa.
“We enjoyed the tournament so much that we decided to join the league!” said Ortiz.
Brenkle Court FC will be playing in the winter league beginning next month.
“This is why affordable housing is so crucial to our community,” said Jordan Bentley, OTSH Board President. “These families can enjoy their homes, not be worried about affording rent next month, and have free time to commit to playing a sport with their neighbors.
“The Brenkle Court families are strengthening their community through exercise and competition. When we started this housing project, we dreamed of a small, tightly-knit group of homeowners who are happy, comfortable, and supported by their neighbors. I hope OTSH’s future projects turn out just as well!”
