Greetings dear family and friends! We hope this letter finds you and your family well. We are requesting your financial support in the athletic endeavors of Evan as he prepares to travel to Del Mar, California for the ECNL National Playoffs June 23 – July 2, 2024. Evan is the son of Jermaine Burke and Genelda Evans-Burke. He is the grandson of Albert Evans, Jr. Elsie G. Evans, Vivian Eason Burke and the late James Burke, Jr.
Evan is currently a sophomore in Newport News Public School system’s Virtual Learning Academy (VLA). Evan enjoys the VLA as it allows for flexibility in soccer training while offering rigorous academic classes. Evan is enrolled in Honors courses and is scheduled to take AP courses next year in pursuit of an Advanced Studies diploma. He was recently accepted into the highly selective New Horizon CTE Welding Program for the upcoming school year. Evan successfully maintains a healthy school-life balance as he excels in rigorous academics and participates in extra-curriculars including club soccer for Beach FC. His soccer commitment requires him to drive an hour each way, 3 nights each week to practice in Virginia Beach. Since the fall of 2023, he has traveled to Delaware, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina and throughout the state of Virginia to compete against teams from across the US.
Evan’s agility, speed and passion are all key factors in him consistently receiving the highest player ratings possible from his coaching staff. His soccer IQ, on and off the field leadership and undeniable strength allowed him to play not only the coveted position of striker on the field, but in the attacking mid-fielder position as well. Evan’s talent combined with his humble nature is a rarity and causes him to stand out in competitive environments. Opponents and spectators often seek him out after games to commend him for his ability to play with tenacity while remaining self-possessed.
While in California, Evan‘s team will compete in three games in front of hundreds of scouts. Those games will determine their placement in the finals. Should they be successful, they will earn a place in the ECNL Finals being held in Richmond, VA in the month of July. This opportunity is bittersweet as Evan has chosen not to return to Beach FC for the upcoming soccer season. Instead, he will train at a premier soccer academy in Richmond, VA under the direction of current and former professional soccer players. His goal is to earn a place on semi-pro or pro soccer team within the next year or two. This experience of attending the ECNL playoffs with his team will be a large part of his farewell to youth soccer as he prepares to shift his focus to intensive training to make strides in his athletic goals.
Due to the cost of travel, lodging and other necessities, Evan needs the support of his family, friends, and community to make this endeavor a success. We are asking for 100 donors to give $50 to help reach the $5,000 goal. If you can give more than $50, please feel free to do so. Please bear in mind, no monetary amount is too small or too large! Any donation is greatly appreciated.
Please keep Evan in your prayers as he seeks the Lord’s guidance for his future. May God bless you richly!
