Spearheaded by coaches Baturay Balic and Julien Kos, a new soccer nonprofit has launched on Orcas Island.

Orcas Island Football Club is the new home for competitive soccer for kids ages 8 and up. They will begin practice in mid-February.

“I’m so proud to be heading up this nonprofit to provide the opportunity for our kids to compete and grow their passion,” Kos said. “Our goal is to get games for the youth, but through that, we’re helping them to take ownership and responsibility in their lives and be successful community members.”

Organizers are still raising money for the endeavor. To donate, visit https://www.orcasislandfc.org/.

Orcas Island FC is dedicated to providing more opportunities to local youth through soccer.

Its mission reads: “To create a soccer program with the same opportunity offered to mainland communities. We believe in the transformative power of sports, and our goal is to help young players develop not only their soccer skills, but also their character, leadership, and teamwork abilities. Join us in our efforts to build a better community through soccer.”