Discovery FC Orange County Teams

Discovery FC Orange County Teams provide a supportive, inclusive, and structured soccer environment for players of all abilities. Our teams focus on skill development, confidence building, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game while ensuring every player feels valued and supported.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We recognize that many neurodivergent children—including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and other developmental or behavioral differences—often face barriers when participating in organized sports. These challenges may include limited support, lack of understanding, or environments that are not designed to meet their individual needs.

In response, Discovery FC is expanding its programming to intentionally increase access to soccer for neurodivergent community members, while continuing to serve the broader youth soccer population.

Orange County

Teams & Programs

Boys

  • U15 – Coach Ruben Lopez

  • U14 – Coaches Ivan Mendoza & Kayven Mendoza

  • U11 – Coach Omar Santana

  • U10 – Coach Omar Santana

  • U9 – Coach Kayven Mendoza

Girls

  • U14 – Coach Rafael Hernandez

  • U13 – Coach Rafael Hernandez

Programs

  • Discovery Minies – Trainer Aymara Mora

 

  • Discovery FC Access & Inclusive Program – BCBA Mey Lam / Coach Omar Santana

A Supportive Soccer Environment

Discovery FC Orange County Teams are built on respect, encouragement, and growth. Players are supported in developing both soccer skills and important life skills through team interaction and guided coaching.

Our teams focus on:

  • Building confidence and social skills

  • Developing technical and tactical fundamentals

  • Encouraging teamwork and communication

  • Creating a positive and structured team experience

This approach allows players of varying abilities to thrive together in a safe and welcoming environment.

Player Enrollment & Team Placement

Player enrollment for Discovery FC Orange County Teams includes an initial conversation with parents or guardians to better understand each player’s experience, strengths, and support needs.

This process helps us:

  • Ensure proper team placement

  • Create balanced and supportive teams

  • Set players up for success within a team environment

Final placement is determined after evaluation to ensure the best possible fit for both the player and the team.

Parent Intake Interview

We meet with parents or guardians to better understand your child’s strengths, needs, and support preferences before placement.

Individual Team Placement

Players are thoughtfully placed based on skill level, comfort, and readiness to ensure a positive and successful experience.

Support-Focused Enrollment

Our enrollment process prioritizes the right environment for each child, not speed or competition, so every player can thrive.

Collaboration With Support Services

Discovery FC Orange County welcomes collaboration with external support services when appropriate. If a player is receiving additional support services, collaboration can help ensure consistency and success within the team environment.

Our coaching staff is open to communication and coordination when it benefits the player’s experience while maintaining a positive and structured team setting for all players.

ABA 1:1 Welcome

If your child receives ABA services, their 1:1 provider is welcome to attend training sessions and support participation as needed.

Coach & Provider Coordination

We encourage communication between families, ABA providers, and coaches to maintain consistency and understanding on the field.

Team-Centered Support Approach

Collaboration helps create a structured, safe, and supportive environment that benefits both neurodivergent and neurotypical players.

Contact Us

Have questions about our programs, enrollment, or inclusive initiatives? We’re here to help and happy to support your family every step of the way.