We are the proud parents of three brothers — Jacob, Jaxson, and Jameson Lelle. This summer, our boys have been given an extraordinary opportunity to travel to Spain to compete at the world‑renowned Donosti Cup, representing NY Empire FC on an international stage. For our family, this experience represents far more than a tournament — it is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity for growth as athletes, pride in representing our community, and memories that will stay with them long after the final whistle.
The Donosti Cup, held each summer in San Sebastián, Spain, is one of the most prestigious international youth soccer tournaments in the world. It brings together hundreds of elite teams from dozens of countries, offering young athletes the rare chance to compete against international opponents, experience different styles of play, and build cultural awareness while forming friendships that cross borders. Matches are played at professional‑level facilities, with teams living, training, and celebrating together throughout the week — creating an atmosphere unlike anything our boys have ever experienced.
Soccer has shaped our sons’ lives for many years. We have watched early mornings, long practices, and countless hours devoted to training, discipline, and teamwork. Now, they have the opportunity to test their skills on a truly global stage. Watching them prepare for this moment — filled with excitement, gratitude, and determination — reminds us just how special this opportunity is. Wearing the NY Empire FC jersey in Spain is something they have worked toward for years, a dream they are ready to embrace fully.
Every donation will go directly toward travel, tournament fees, lodging, and team expenses to help make this journey possible. No gift is too small — every dollar brings Jacob, Jaxson, and Jameson one step closer to Spain.
Thank you for supporting their passion, their dedication, and their dream. ⚽✈️🇪🇸
Highlights
See all activity1Boys on the Field
Jacob
Jacob’s love for soccer runs deep. He plays for UST with Aston Villa, where his commitment, leadership, work ethic have earned him the role of team captain for two consecutive years — a reflection of the respect he has gained from coaches and teammates alike. This year marked a major milestone as Jacob earned a spot on the St. Anthony’s freshman team, the result of years of dedication, sacrifice, belief in himself.
What sets Jacob apart is his willingness to do whatever the team needs. He has played offense, defense, plus goalie, always stepping up without hesitation. Soccer has shaped Jacob into the leader he is becoming, teaching responsibility, discipline, confidence that extend far beyond the field.
Jaxson
Jaxson’s journey is a story of growth, determination, belief. Playing for UST with Manchester City, Jaxson made an incredible leap in just one year, earning his move from the B team to the A team through relentless effort and perseverance. He plays center midfield, a position that demands vision, stamina, leadership.
This season, Jaxson set a personal goal to score numerous goals from his position — a challenge he embraced fully. Within the first week of the season, he accomplished that goal, proving that dedication pays off. His continued growth has also earned him the opportunity to play up with the Hurricanes, while he works toward his goal of one day playing for St. Anthony’s.
Jameson
Jameson’s soccer journey began at a remarkably young age. Five years ago, he started with UST as the youngest player in the academy, playing up on his older brother’s team. From the beginning, Jameson showed courage, confidence, love for the game well beyond his years.
Today, Jameson plays on age with the Wolves, while also playing up a year with Real Madrid, competing in both 9v9 and 7v7 formats. He plays center midfield and wing, showing versatility, creativity, fearlessness every time he steps on the field. Still young, Jameson has a bright future ahead — the sky truly is the limit.
Boys off the Field
Off the field, our boys are just as driven and grounded as they are on it. All three do well in school and take pride in being natural leaders, whether in the classroom, at practice, or at home. Even on their days off, they choose to train on their own — not because they are asked to, but because they genuinely love the game and the discipline that comes with it.
They also serve as altar servers at their church, something they take seriously and are proud to be part of. Along with their faith, they love all things outdoors and understand the value of responsibility. From helping care for our family chickens to managing everyday responsibilities like doing their own laundry, they are learning accountability, independence, and teamwork in real-life ways.
Watching them grow into well-rounded young men — balancing athletics, academics, faith, and family responsibilities — has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey for us as parents. 🙏⚽
