RSLA Soccer Star Sets Sights on Professional Dreams in Honduras
Robert Smalls Leadership Academy eighth-grader Edwin Ariel Moreno Ochoa is taking a bold step toward his dream of becoming a professional soccer player and representing Honduras on the national stage. The 14-year-old is set to travel to Honduras to train and try out with a Division 1 Academy, C.D. Victoria, in La Ceiba. The opportunity could be life-changing, both for Edwin and his family.
Born in Beaufort on September 18, 2010, to parents from Honduras, Edwin has been immersed in soccer, or "fútbol," since the age of four. His journey began with a Burton community team before being recruited by Coach Imer Hernandez to play for Club Beaufort (CBDF). Over the years, Edwin honed his skills, making his mark on the field with Robert Smalls Leadership Academy during the 2023-2024 school year and planning to return for the 2024-2025 season.
Edwin’s talent and dedication have earned him unique opportunities. At just 13 years old, he debuted in "The Jungle," a competitive Sunday league where he played alongside his father and veteran players from across the region. His inclusion at such a young age speaks volumes about his potential.
This upcoming trip to Honduras marks a pivotal moment in Edwin’s soccer career. He’ll be leaving the U.S. for the first time—and flying for the first time—to train with 30 other young athletes at C.D. Victoria’s academy. Only nine will be invited to join the team. While the prospect is thrilling, Edwin admits to feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. “As it gets closer, I’m getting more nervous,” he shared. “But my mom has helped me calm down.”
The stakes are high, but Edwin is driven by more than personal ambition. “Most of our family came from poverty,” he explained. “My mom has seven siblings, and this has the potential to be a big signing and help my family. I want to help my family get out of the struggle.”
Edwin’s father, who played Division 2 soccer in Honduras, has been a guiding force, sharing wisdom about the intensity of training and competition abroad. “He tells me the training will be so much more intense than what I’ve experienced here,” Edwin said. “I know I will go up against people who have played soccer their whole life, so it will be pretty challenging.”
The family’s commitment to Edwin’s dream is unwavering. They have invested significant resources to make this opportunity possible, determined to provide the support Edwin’s father lacked in his own career. “My dad had great potential in D2 but didn’t have the support to go further. He doesn’t want that for me.”
Edwin’s goal is clear: to make the team and one day play for the Honduran national team. His uncle’s son, who played for the national team in 2006, serves as an inspiring example of what’s possible.
During his six-week stay, Edwin will live with a family friend who helped arrange the accommodations, providing a support system in a foreign country. Though the journey ahead is daunting, Edwin is ready to rise to the occasion. “This is a big opportunity, and I want to make the most of it before high school.”
Edwin’s story is one of talent, determination, and the power of family support. As he prepares for this transformative experience, the Robert Smalls Leadership Academy community will undoubtedly cheer him on, inspired by his courage and unwavering dedication to achieving his dreams.