Far From Over

Kimberly Acevedo Ramirez, USA

New York City FC and Goal Click are collaborating to create a storytelling series that highlights the authentic journeys of standout City In The Community (CITC) participants, reflecting their growth through the program, from youth involvement to leadership and employment. These stories will showcase the lasting influence of CITC and the meaningful role Capital Rx plays in setting the foundation for healthy living through their funding.

Kimberly Acevedo Ramirez is a 19-year-old CITC coach and Pre-Med Biochemistry student from Queens, New York, who found her love for soccer through community and now helps others do the same.

My name is Kimberly Acevedo Ramirez. I am 19 years old and was born and raised in Queens, New York. I have been coaching with City in the Community (CITC) since 2024 while also studying Biochemistry as a full-time Pre-Med college student at The City College of New York.

My family is Mexican, and like many Mexican families, they are huge soccer fans. However, I did not take much interest in the sport until I was 15 after COVID-19 lockdown as a high school sophomore because I wanted to rediscover myself and set new goals. 

My school had just built a brand-new soccer pitch, and all my friends played there after class. I was not very confident and felt nervous , especially as one of the few girls on the field, so I often said no when invited to play, even though I wanted to.

That changed during my junior year when I joined CITC’s Saturday Night Lights program, on the recommendation of Coach Jasmine and Coach Kat, as I was completing the Young Leader Training. 

It was a safe, supportive space where I could play and build confidence. My coaches made every session fun, and it was there that I was first introduced to coaching. Though hesitant at first, I quickly fell in love with the idea of connecting more deeply with soccer.

By senior year, I joined my school’s girls varsity soccer team and completed CITC’s Young Leader Training. That season was unforgettable because we practiced hard, bonded as a team, and even won first place in my first futsal tournament. My only regret is not starting sooner, but my journey is far from over.

Sharing The Game

New York City Football Club represents community and sharing the joy of the game with friends, family, and fans. My connection began through Saturday Night Lights, and supporting NYCFC came naturally.

I have attended 21 home games, and one of my favorite memories was pressing the smoke buttons to start a match. The energy in the stands was incredible!

Even with the long commute from Queens to the Bronx, watching players like Moralez, Freese, and Haak makes every trip worth it, especially when shared with friends or family. I cannot wait for the new stadium here in Queens!

Including Everyone

CITC has taught me the importance of approach. Coaching means adapting to different kids, each with unique needs, languages, and experiences. Whether it is simplifying drills, adding challenges, or translating, I always aim to make everyone feel included. That mindset carries over into everything I do, on and off the field.

CITC has helped me grow from participant to leader by trusting my abilities. I have been challenged in real ways by coaching with limited resources, translating for community events, and supporting other coaches when needed.

One of my proudest moments was being selected to represent New York at Man City’s 2025 Young Leader Summit in Atlanta with three amazing coaches and 12 from across the US.

I have also met so many incredible mentors along the way, including Coach Sameer, Pronoy, Jasmine, Mauricio, and Jillian, all of whom I deeply admire for their kindness, professionalism, and leadership. I always feel like I can talk to them and ask for advice, knowing I will learn something valuable. I hope to be a leader just like them.

Showing Up

Community means showing up for one another. At CITC, coaches support each other, share ideas, and make sure everyone feels welcome. That is how our community grows and gets stronger.

For anyone just starting out at CITC, my advice is simple: try everything. There are so many opportunities to grow and lead here. Do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, because at CITC, you will always have a team that supports you 100%.