GONZALES — Gonzales youth soccer prodigy Ahmir Taylor, the 11-year-old son of Jessica and Anthony Taylor, traveled to Spain last month for an incredible training experience at the prestigious FC Barcelona Academy.
Taylor, a fifth-grade student at La Gloria Elementary, represents Monterey Surf in the NorCal Premier League and continues to make his community proud with his dedication and talent. He was in Spain from Feb. 8-17.
This marks the second time Taylor has had the honor of training in Spain, having previously trained with Valencia CF last spring after a standout performance at a local tryout.
His journey to the FC Barcelona Academy began last July when he was selected from a summer camp held by the club in the Bay Area.
This year’s experience was particularly special for Taylor, a devoted Barcelona supporter, as he had the opportunity to train on the same grounds that have produced legends like Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola and rising star Lamine Yamal.
Tayor’s passion for the sport and his commitment to excellence were evident throughout his time in Spain, where he won the coveted Golden Boot Award for his outstanding performance.
“We are extremely proud of him,” said his mom Jessica, “and grateful to the community for their support in fundraising and cheering him along in the process.”
In addition to his club commitments, Taylor participates in the Olympic Development Program (ODP) through US Youth Soccer, representing the Cal North Division. The ODP aims to identify and nurture high-potential players, providing them with development opportunities and pathways to greater soccer achievements.
Taylor also works closely with the Footy’s Got You Foundation to support local clothing and food drives across Monterey County.
For Taylor, soccer is more than just a sport; it is a way to share his passion and build community with others. He said he is “deeply grateful” to his community for their unwavering support in helping him get to Spain, and he is dedicated to representing South Monterey County with pride wherever he plays.
Taylor also extended his thanks to North Cal Futsal training in Greenfield for their “dedication and belief” in his potential.
Beyond soccer, Taylor enjoys learning about history, especially world leaders and the American Civil Rights Movement, and he loves to play at the park with his friends or play video games online. He loves dogs and also participates in community volunteer events through Footy’s Got You Foundation and Fuerza Union 831.
