Written by: K.G. Graham

Photos by: Cameron Pate & Luke Powell

This past week, Dallas entrepreneur and philanthropist Kevin Kelley made a lasting impact on the Richland Community College soccer team by donating over 100 pairs of soccer cleats to the athletes for their upcoming season. The donation event, held at KANVAS in Deep Ellum, was not just about providing footwear but represented a larger commitment to the community and the next generation of athletes.

The Richland soccer team, known for their determination and success on the field, were deeply touched by Kelley’s generosity. The cleats, which may seem like a small item to some, carry great significance for these athletes, many of whom face financial challenges. The donation helps to level the playing field, allowing them to focus on their game without the worry of affording new gear.

KANVAS, a popular creative hub in Deep Ellum, provided the perfect backdrop for the cleat handover. The players gathered for lunch, and as they received their new cleats, the atmosphere was one of excitement and appreciation. For these young athletes, the donation meant much more than just new equipment—it represented the support of a community that believes in their potential.

Alan Rivera, one of the team’s standout players, shared his thoughts on the impact of the donation: “It means a lot. I know a lot of players were on their last pair of cleats…this is a huge donation for our team to help us push forward to play better.” His words reflect the gratitude felt by the entire team and the tangible effect that new gear can have on their performance and morale.

Kevin Kelley is no stranger to giving back. As a successful entrepreneur, he understands the importance of investing in the next generation, particularly in underserved communities. His donation to the Richland soccer team is just one example of his commitment to making a difference through thoughtful, impactful actions.

“For Kevin Kelley to reach out and do this for our kids is big,” said Raul Herrera, the coach of Richland’s soccer team. “You know, we’re a successful program and we try to provide as much as we can on and off the field, but at the end of the day, we’re a junior college without a big budget or resources like other universities. So for him to come out and do this token of appreciation for our kids is great, and we’re really blessed. I know our kids are appreciative.”

Herrera’s statement underscores the financial challenges that many junior colleges face. Despite their success, schools like Richland often lack the budgetary resources that larger institutions have. Kelley’s donation helps bridge that gap, providing the team with much-needed equipment that they might not have otherwise been able to afford.

The donation of over 100 soccer cleats isn’t just about equipping athletes for a season—it’s about strengthening the community. Kelley’s contribution sets a powerful example of how local businesses and leaders can directly impact the lives of young people. In a broader sense, his generosity fosters a culture of support and opportunity within the Dallas area.

For the athletes, the cleats provide more than just physical support—they offer a sense of pride and motivation. With the new gear, the team can compete at their best, knowing that someone in their community believes in their success. As Alan Rivera mentioned, this donation allows them to “push forward to play better,” something that will undoubtedly fuel their drive on the field.

As the Richland soccer team heads into their season, they do so with renewed energy, confidence, and appreciation for the support they’ve received. Kevin Kelley’s donation of 100+ soccer cleats is more than an act of kindness—it’s an investment in the future of these young athletes and a testament to the power of community involvement.

This story of generosity, leadership, and community is one that will leave a lasting impact on the team and inspire others to give back in meaningful ways. With their new cleats and a strengthened sense of support, the Richland soccer team is ready to take on the season and show what they’re made of.