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Victoria Hernanadez

Raised by a soccer fanatic, Victoria’s life was quickly impacted by the sport. She began playing at the age of four, when her dad first signed her up for the local AYSO league. Witnessing his excitement as he watched his favorite soccer teams play on television motivated her to strive for a higher level of soccer. After three years of playing AYSO, she wanted to improve her game, so Victoria joined a Sunday basic recreational league, which was comprised of only boys, located in the city of Lennox. There, she was a part of the boys’ Atlético LAX team. They did not have any girl’s teams in that league, but playing with boys and their creative style of play, quick ball movement, and an intense physical side of the game, made her a more confident player.

All of this, would not only prepare Victoria to transition to club soccer, but it would lay the foundation for her future success, playing at the highest club level, in many years to come.

The first club team Victoria joined was Beach FC. Initially, she felt out of place as the group of girls were predominantly white, but Coach Billy, her first club coach and the person who soon became her mentor, assured her she would fit right in. His sincere advice, guidance, and financial support over the years, helped Victoria achieve the success she was capable of attaining in soccer, regardless of her family’s finances.

  Surely enough, she quickly adapted to the group and to her surprise, she began to see the diversity within the team grow. The variety of players who’d come from different ethnic backgrounds not only brought her comfort, but created an enjoyable environment to play in. Not only did they have fun, but the team was very competitive, as well, as they consistently improved and progressed each year.  The team advanced from flight 3 (the lowest level), to flight 2, (a more competitive level) and in Victoria’s last year, they advanced to the even higher, flight 1 level. 

Isabella Munoz

Izabella Munoz’s  life has been a thrilling journey on the soccer field. From the tender age of 3, she kicked off her love affair with soccer, and has never looked back. Growing up in the vibrant community of Hawthorne, CA, soccer was more than just a sport to her – it was a way of life.

For as long as she can remember, Isabella laced up her cleats for AYSO, pouring her heart and soul into every game. Little did she know that one fateful day, during an AYSO all-star match, destiny would step in. It was there that Billy Hansen spotted her, saw her passion on the field, and approached her with an opportunity that would forever change her trajectory. With excitement coursing through her veins, she eagerly accepted Billy’s invitation to join Beach FC, a moment that marked the turning point in her soccer journey.

From that day forward, she dedicated herself to honing her skills and improving with every practice, every game. Eight-plus years of guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support from Billy molded her into the player she is today. Hansen’s impact on her growth cannot be overstated. His coaching prowess and friendship have been invaluable pillars of her journey.

As she progressed through the ranks, another incredible opportunity presented itself, and Billy, being the exceptional mentor he is, encouraged her to seize it. It was a leap to a higher level, and she embraced it with all her might.

Today, Isabella  proudly wears the colors of ECNL for LAFC SoCal, a testament to the dreams she has chased (and captured) and the dedication she has poured into her passion. When asked about her experience with Coach Billy and SIFA, Isabella stated, “ I owe an immense debt of gratitude to Billy for shaping me into the player I’ve become and for consistently being the guiding light in my soccer story. His influence as a coach and a friend will forever inspire me to reach for the stars. So, here’s to the love of the game, to the opportunities that shape us, and to the coaches like Billy Hansen who believe in our potential. My name is Izabella Munoz, and my soccer journey is far from over with each day, I continue to learn, grow, and thrive on the field.