For five years, Des Moines Soccer Club (DMSC) has represented a soccer community built on kindness, generosity and a love for the game. The club recently brought those values center stage at Aliber Fields, hosting its Heart of Goals Anniversary Celebration. The milestone event united families, players, coaches and volunteers for a day that blended fun, competition and purpose.
A Name with Meaning
The name Heart of Goals carries a dual message. It celebrates soccer’s spirit while also honoring the compassion that defines the DMSC community. From parents who carpool to practices, to coaches who put in extra hours and donors who help fund financial assistance, these acts of generosity are the foundation of the club’s success.
“Heart of Goals was more than an anniversary celebration. It was a joyful gathering of families, players and volunteers, all united by our shared love for soccer and community,” said Matt Ream, DMSC Executive Director. “Events like this remind us that soccer is more than just a game; it’s a way to build connections, create memories and support families both on and off the field.”
Fun on the Field, Purpose Behind It
The celebration was designed with all ages in mind. Kids lined up for bounce houses, inflatable soccer dartboards and yard games, while families enjoyed grab-and-go lunches, Kona Ice and a chance to win raffle prizes from local partners.
On the field, the Battle of the Boots Skills Challenge gave participants (from young athletes to soccer parents) the chance to showcase their dribbling, passing and shooting skills. The afternoon was capped off with the Sideline Showdown, a spirited match between coaches and parents that drew cheers and bragging rights for the year ahead.
But beyond the fun, the event carried a mission. Proceeds and donations supported the club’s financial assistance program, ensuring that more kids across Greater Des Moines can access the game. Attendees also partnered with Des Moines Refugee Support, donating gently used soccer gear and exploring ways to volunteer.
Five Years of Growth, A Statewide Impact
While Heart of Goals celebrated the DMSC community, its influence stretches far beyond Des Moines. In just five years, the club has grown into a model of how local sports organizations can lower barriers, expand access and welcome players from every background. By keeping generosity at its core, DMSC continues to contribute to the larger mission of the Iowa Soccer Association, which is to grow the game for all across the state.
“While Iowa Soccer strives to provide soccer opportunities, it is our clubs that truly make it happen,” said Dan Cataldi, Chief Executive Officer of the Iowa Soccer Association. “Programs like Heart of Goals are critical to delivering on our mission by creating a fun and inclusive environment. Thank you to DMSC and all our member clubs that work daily to grow the game and bring joy to the kids and the community.”
The Heart of Goals Celebration was about more than just looking back at five years of progress for DMSC. It was a reminder that soccer’s greatest victories happen off the scoreboard when families come together, players find belonging and communities rally around the game they love.
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