AV Alta Brings Community Spirit to AV — Popshop Meet-and-Greet

LANCASTER, CA — Fans of AV Alta got the chance to meet two of their favorite players up close during a special community meet-and-greet hosted at AV Popshop on Thursday. The event was kept small for an intimate feeling. About 50 excited supporters, filling the space with cheers, autographs, and team pride.

A Festive Atmosphere

The middle room at AV Popshop was transformed into a hub of soccer spirit, with 8 tables for fans and two long tables for the players. Hats, scarves and cards filled the table in front of the players while the fans enjoyed a nice dinner provided by S&L BBQ (@ironmeats433). Families, longtime fans, and newcomers gathered for the chance to take photos, collect autographs, and hear from players.

Team Connections

Players of AV Alta, including hometown hero Miguel Ibarra and Santa Cruz born, Walmer Martinez, were joined by Panchito Ramirez, Head of Partnerships, and spent time greeting supporters. They spoke about the season, importance of community support, and highlights from recent games.

One story that stood out was about the significance of the victory over Orange County SC which is in a division above AV Alta. The players explained that a bus of supporters drove out to make the game and one supporter held a sign that read “Lamecaster”. Also a video was discussed showing fans of the other team asking anyone to put a pin on the map where Lancaster is. Well you can bet that they all know where Lancaster is now ending in victory for AV Alta after penalty kicks.

Community at the Heart

Hearing the players tell that story was not the first time I heard it. I sat at a table with brothers Chris and Angel Martinez. They told me the same story from their perspective along with the fact that they have attended most of the games so far only missing a couple. I have not had the chance to attend a game… yet. But the Martinez brothers told me that there is no better way to enjoy a game than standing in the 661 supporters section and cheering on your feet for the entire game.

For many attendees, the event was about more than just soccer. It was about community. Giving people of the AV somewhere to go and come together as One Valley. To cheer on the players in unity. Our favorite drinks, places for steaks and coffee were shared in this intimate engagement with the fans. Watching Walmer and Miguel talk to a young fan about his school and seeing the genuine interest in their faces, shows just how much they care about the fans and support from the community.

Looking Ahead

AV Alta will next play Forward Madison FC on Saturday September 6th at Lancaster Municipal Stadium, and players emphasized how much community support helps fuel their performance.

Thank you to Orlando Corona and his amazing team at AV Popshop for hosting this amazing event. If you, by some chance, are not familiar with AV Popshop, watch the video linked below to learn about his story from Pepsi delivery driver to business owner and largest toy store in the valley. This valley is full of amazing people and stories. Stay tuned for more.

Watch Orlando’s story on YouTube