FC Wisconsin is thrilled to be promoting one of our own within the club, as Kelsey Hawthorne will be leading our Junior Academy Program (7-10 year olds). Since coming to our FC Family, Kelsey has brought leadership, her fun loving personality and a contagious energy! We look forward to her continued work and positive impact with our players.

“We are beyond thrilled to have found someone within our staff to promote as Junior Academy Program Director. Kelsey brings a ton of energy, competitiveness, intensity, and patience … most importantly, she is an incredible teacher of the game. We are excited to see her grow the program, develop the players, and bring out the love of the game and excitement to train,” notes Co-Director Billy Solberg.

“We look forward to the continued growth of the Junior Academy Program under Kelsey’s leadership. She has a passion for working with the younger players that is detailed, yet brings out the fun in the game. I’m excited to see what the next chapter looks like under her leadership,” added Youth Director Ryan Otten.

Coach Kelsey shares, “I am extremely excited for this new opportunity! Working with this age group, this is an important time for their development and building their love for the game. My parents started me in soccer when I was three years old. I had great coaches early on that helped me find my love of the game. I want to be able to help these boys find their love of the game. The development that I have seen so far in my short time with the club gets me very excited to see what more we can all do together.”

FC Wisconsin extends its immense appreciation to Coach Gustavo Esquivel for all his previous work with the Junior Academy Program. He began leading the program more than seven years ago. It was not an easy task, but he grew the program and brought many smiles to players’ faces throughout the years. We congratulate Coach Gustavo on the addition of a son to his family, and understand his desire to spend more time with him. He will continue to remain on the FC Wisconsin coaching staff and continue to help develop players.