Catherine Kobrinsky Evans and Lee Evans Make First Community Leadership Gift to The Match with $250,000 Commitment

Catherine Kobrinsky Evans and Lee Evans Make First Community Leadership Gift to The Match with $250,000 Commitment

Kobrinsky Evans Family Field Will Help Bring 8 New Soccer Fields to the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex

Salinas, CA — The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex today announced that Catherine Kobrinsky Evans and Lee Evans have made the first community leadership gift to The Match, committing $250,000 to help bring 8 new soccer fields to the complex.

Their investment marks a defining early step in a $3 million campaign, launched by a $1.5 million challenge gift from Taylor Farms, inviting the community to invest the other $1.5 million.

In recognition of their gift, one of the new fields will be named the Kobrinsky Evans Family Field, honoring a family whose commitment has helped shape the vision, momentum, and future of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex.

Salinas soccer fields.

The Match represents a pivotal opportunity to expand one of the most heavily used community assets in the region. The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex currently serves more than 11,500 weekly users. Once these 8 new soccer fields are completed in early 2027, that number is expected to grow to more than 20,000 weekly users, nearly doubling the number of children, families, and community members who will be able to benefit from the complex each week.

This expansion will strengthen the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex’s ability to host larger regional and statewide tournaments, draw more visitors to the area, and generate meaningful economic impact in the tens of millions of dollars for the Salinas Valley through increased sports tourism spending.

“Over the past ten years, we’ve had the privilege of watching this space grow into a place where families come together week after week,” said Catherine Kobrinsky Evans, Vice President of the Board of Directors and Campaign Chair for The Match. “We’ve seen the power of a safe, family and community-centered space to truly shape and strengthen our community. When Taylor Farms stepped forward, it resonated deeply with us and made clear that this is a defining opportunity to lead and invest in a way that reflects what this community deserves.”

Lee Evans said their family’s decision to give at this level was grounded in the impact the expanded Salinas Regional Soccer Complex will have on local youth.

“This is about opening the door for more kids to step onto a field, to be part of a team, and to grow up in an environment that builds confidence, discipline, and connection” Lee shared. “Investing in this effort means expanding that experience to thousands more young people across our community.”

Kurt Gollnick, Board Chair of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex, emphasized both the significance of this moment and Catherine’s long-standing leadership.

“Catherine has been a driving force behind this vision for years,” said Gollnick. “Her leadership, persistence, and deep belief in what this complex makes possible for families across the Salinas Valley have helped bring us to this moment. For Catherine and Lee to make the first community leadership gift to The Match reflects a level of commitment that is both personal and deeply aligned with the future of this community. It sets the tone for what comes next.”

The Match is a transformational community challenge that will accelerate the next phase of growth for the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex and advance its long-term vision to become the largest facility of its kind between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

All donors to The Match will be recognized alongside fellow community leaders on permanent signage at the new fields, reflecting a shared investment in a project that will shape the future of the Salinas Valley for generations to come.

For more information about the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex and opportunities to support The Match, please visit https://salinassoccer.org/the-match/

About the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex

The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex is a nonprofit community asset dedicated to providing a safe, accessible, and family-centered space for youth and adult recreation. Serving more than 11,500 weekly users, the complex continues to grow as a premier destination for local play, community connection, and regional tournaments.

Media Contact
Jonathan De Anda
General Manager, Salinas Regional Soccer Complex

831-216-5643

jonathan@salinassoccer.org

Taylor Farms Commits $1.5 Million Challenge Grant to Lead “The Match” – A $3 million Campaign for the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex

Salinas Soccer field and Taylor Farms.

SALINAS, CA – The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex has announced “The Match,” a $3 million campaign to build eight new soccer fields and complete critical supporting infrastructure. This investment will meet growing community demand and move the Complex closer to its vision of becoming the largest sports facility of its kind between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

SALINAS, CA – The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex has announced “The Match,” a $3 million campaign to build eight new soccer fields and complete critical supporting infrastructure. This investment will meet growing community demand and move the Complex closer to its vision of becoming the largest sports facility of its kind between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Currently serving 11,500 people each week, the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex has become a trusted hub for youth sports, families, and community gatherings throughout Monterey County. With the addition of new fields and amenities, weekly use is projected to exceed 22,000, positioning the Complex to host state and national tournaments and events that drive significant economic impact for the region.

Soccer League in Salinas, California.

Taylor Farms has taken the lead in The Match campaign with a $1.5 million challenge gift. This leadership commitment launches a community-wide call to action and provides a powerful opportunity for donors to double their impact.

The Match is a $3 million campaign and a critical component of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex’s broader $10 million effort to complete Phases 2 and 3 of construction. Together, these phases deliver the core field and infrastructure improvements needed to operate at full regional capacity, including eight new soccer fields, stadium seating to support large-scale events, restrooms, field lighting, and essential infrastructure such as fencing. This work is part of the Complex’s overall $45 million capital campaign, which will ultimately include Phase 4 and the development of a wellness center and fieldhouse, indoor soccer facilities, and celebration plaza.

“This investment reflects a deep belief in the role community spaces play in shaping health, opportunity, and connection for generations,” said Catherine Kobrinsky Evans, Vice President of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex and Chair of The Match campaign. “Taylor Farms has stepped forward with extraordinary leadership, creating a moment for others to come together and help build something that truly belongs to this community.”

The goal is to fulfill the challenge in 2026 and complete construction of the new fields and supporting amenities by Spring 2027. This expansion will increase access to safe greenspace, strengthen opportunities for youth and women’s leagues, and enhance the region’s ability to host tournaments that bring families and economic activity to the Salinas Valley.

Community leaders, businesses, and individuals are invited to participate in The Match and be recognized alongside Taylor Farms and other partners helping shape the future of this vital community resource.

About Taylor Farms

Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Salinas, California, Taylor Farms is a leading producer of fresh-cut fruits, vegetables, and packaged salads, supplying retailers, food service operators, and consumers across North America. The company is family-owned and built on a commitment to quality, innovation, and responsible food production, with deep roots in the Salinas Valley.

About the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex

The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering physical health, community connection, and opportunity through access to high-quality sports and recreational facilities. Serving thousands of families each week, the Complex is one of the most active and trusted community hubs in Monterey County.

Media Contact

Alla Zeltser, CDO
Disruptive Development, Inc.
831-331-1361
alla@alla-and-co.com

Salinas Regional Soccer Complex Awarded $500,000 in Federal Funding for Next Phase Expansion

Salinas soccer league for youth and adults.

Press Release by the County of Monterey

Salinas, CA — The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex has been officially recognized by the U.S. Congress for its ambitious vision to transform previously undeveloped land into a vibrant, state-of-the-art sports and recreation hub. The US Congress has awarded $500,000 in federal funding, thanks to extraordinary efforts made by Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren. This grant will help support the next phase of expansion for the Complex, a critical investment that advances what is poised to become the largest sports facility between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

“I was proud to have submitted the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex as one of my community project requests this year, and I’m glad to see this funding coming to Monterey County,” Rep. Lofgren said. “This is a big investment in Salinas’ future as a regional cultural hub, and I am thrilled that Californians of all ages will get to enjoy this complex for generations to come.”

The funding marks a significant milestone in the development of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex and reinforces the project’s transformative impact on youth, families, and the broader Monterey County community. Once completed, the Complex has the potential to serve up to 18,000 + children and youth weekly, along with their families.

The expansion project, developed in partnership with the Salinas Regional Sports Authority, includes:

  • 7 new natural grass soccer fields
  • A 3,000-seat, lighted outdoor stadium with two synthetic soccer fields
  • Sand soccer fields
  • A 60,000-square-foot indoor soccer arena featuring concessions, classrooms, and maintenance facilities
  • An outdoor sports court
  • An outdoor restroom facility
  • 421 new parking spaces and pedestrian walkways
  • An on-site irrigation well to serve both proposed and adjacent existing fields
  • Stormwater control facilities, including Low Impact Development (LID) features and infiltration basins
  • Environmental protections, including setbacks from Gabilan Creek and adjacent wetlands, as well as minor compensatory wetland restoration

Although the project site is owned by the County of Monterey, the Soccer Complex has been a partnership between the City of Salinas and the nonprofit organization, the Salinas Regional Sports Authority, which will construct and operate the next phases of the facility.

“This $500,000 investment is a major win for the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex and for the families and youth we serve across Monterey County,” said Jonathan De Anda, Executive Director. “We’re grateful to Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren and the County of Monterey for their leadership and partnership in securing these funds. This support helps us continue building out high-quality, accessible natural grass fields that promote health, community connection, and opportunity for thousands of residents each week.”

Beyond expanding recreational opportunities, the project reflects a strong commitment to sustainable land use and environmental stewardship. By revitalizing land once considered unusable and incorporating thoughtful stormwater management and habitat protections, the Complex demonstrates how community development and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

County of Monterey, District 1 Supervisor Luis Alejo emphasized the regional importance of this investment.

“This federal funding represents a powerful investment in the health, well-being, and future of our young people,” said District 1 Supervisor Luis Alejo. “The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex will expand access to safe, high-quality recreational space for thousands of youths and families in Salinas, while also generating economic activity and strengthening regional pride. I’m proud to continue supporting a project that transforms underutilized county land into a lasting community asset for generations to come.”

The $500,000 grant provides partial funding for the next phase of development and positions the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex to continue advancing toward its vision of becoming a premier destination for youth sports, tournaments, and community events throughout California’s Central Coast.

For more information about the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex and opportunities to support the project, please visit https://salinassoccer.org/.

Salinas Regional Soccer Complex Announces Landmark $250,000 Partnership with Costa Family Restaurants

Salinas Regional Soccer complex partnership with Costa family restaurants.

The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex announced a five-year, $250,000 partnership with the Costa Family Restaurants, marking a major vote of confidence in the future of the Complex.

This investment supports the continued growth of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex, which already welcomes more than 11,500 weekly users. With lighted fields, year-round programming, and regional and statewide tournaments, the Complex has become a beloved community hub and an economic driver for the Salinas Valley.

Currently in the middle of a $45 million capital campaign, the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex is actively building out Phase 3, which will add seven new tournament-size grass fields as well as eight soccer sand courts to meet overwhelming community demand. When fully built out, the Complex will serve more than 22,000 people weekly and will stand as the largest sports facility of its kind between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Ray Costa, founder of the Costa Family Restaurants and longtime McDonald’s owner-operator, said his support is rooted in impact, not the sport itself.

Salinas Regional Soccer Complex partners with Costa Family Restaurants

“What stood out to me was the bigger picture. This is about community, health, and opportunity,” Costa said. “Our company philosophy is to help families and children, and when you see how many families the Complex serves every week, the impact is undeniable. It keeps our kids busy and on the right track. We are proud to be a part of it.”

The partnership was shaped by a strong alignment of values between the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex and the Costa Family Restaurants. The Complex provides safe, accessible space for youth and adults, strengthens family connection, opens doors for young people to succeed in their sports and educational goals, and delivers measurable community benefit at scale.

Board member Ian Jones emphasized the importance of Costa’s hands-on engagement.

“We are deeply grateful that Ray took the time to come out, learn about the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex, and see the impact firsthand,” Ian Jones said. “Once you stand on the fields, meet the families, and understand the scale of what is happening here, it is impossible not to believe in it. Ray’s partnership reflects a genuine commitment to the Salinas Valley and to doing something meaningful for the community.”

The partnership is a strong example of how business and community thrive together, and the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex welcomes the opportunity to build lasting partnerships, based on shared values, with the business community.

About the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex

The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex is a nonprofit community facility serving thousands of youth, families, and adults each week. With existing and planned grass and turf fields, lighting for extended hours, and space for regional tournaments, the Complex is transforming underutilized land into one of the most impactful community assets on California’s Central Coast.

About Costa Family Restaurants

Costa Family Restaurants is a locally owned McDonald’s organization operating nine restaurants in the Salinas Valley and Hollister, California. Led by Ray Costa and his family, the company has a long-standing commitment to supporting employees, families, and the communities it serves. In 2016, the Costa family established the Raymond H. Costa Family Scholarship to expand access to higher education and trade programs for employees and their families. Through its restaurants, scholarship program, and philanthropic partnerships, Costa Family Restaurants continues to invest in opportunity, education, and lasting community impact.

Monterey Bay Football Club and Salinas Regional Sports Complex Announce Partnership

Monterey Bay FC partnership with Salinas Regional Soccer Complex.

PRESS RELEASE BY MONTEREY BAY FC

SEASIDE, California (Monday, January 19, 2026) – Monterey Bay Football Club (Monterey Bay FC) announced today a new partnership with the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex (SRSC) designed to expand access to high-level soccer on the Central Coast while creating meaningful, sustainable support for local player development. The collaboration aligns two organizations committed to growing the game and strengthening pathways for young athletes through shared programming, enhanced visibility, and community-first opportunities.

As part of the partnership, SRSC will serve as the Official Training Grounds for Monterey Bay FC’s USL Academy programs, providing a dedicated home for training, development, and select competitions when mutually agreed upon. Together, the organizations will also collaborate on a series of annual initiatives—including camps, clinics, tournaments, and identification opportunities—built to create new experiences for players and families while supporting the operational health of the partnership. “We’re proud to partner with the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex, an organization that’s been instrumental in providing opportunities for players and families across our region,” said Oliver Wyss, Chairman and Chief Soccer Officer of Monterey Bay FC. “This relationship is about more than facilities—it’s about building a consistent, connected pathway for development on the Central Coast. By working together, we can create stronger opportunities for young players, expand the reach of our USL Academy programs, and continue investing in the communities that fuel this Club.”

Monterey Bay FC partnership with Salinas Regional Soccer Complex.

The partnership will also bring SRSC into the Club’s matchday and media ecosystem through shared promotional activations and visibility across Monterey Bay FC platforms, including opportunities for onsite engagement at Cardinale Stadium, digital placements, and community-forward marketing collaboration. Additional pop-up opportunities for Monterey Bay FC merchandise and ticketing engagement will be scheduled jointly throughout the year to better connect supporters with the Club while supporting local soccer initiatives.

“Partnering with Monterey Bay FC is a major step forward for our mission,” said Jonathan DeAnda, General Manager of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex. “We believe in creating real opportunities for local players, and this collaboration allows us to strengthen that pathway while bringing more resources, programming, and visibility to the soccer community we serve. We’re excited to welcome Monterey Bay FC into our home and work together to grow the game across the Central Coast.”

Monterey Bay FC.

In celebration of Monterey Bay FC’s continued international collaboration, SRSC will also be a featured community beneficiary connected to the Club’s first-ever international friendly against Liga MX’s Club de Fútbol Pachuca, set for February 28, 2026 at Cardinale Stadium. Proceeds from the match will support SRSC’s ongoing efforts to expand access, development programming, and regional soccer infrastructure. Additional details regarding upcoming joint programming, activation dates, and scheduling for pop-up engagements will be announced in the coming months.

Monterey Bay FC Communications – @MontereyBayFC

Salinas Regional Soccer Complex Successfully Meets Critical Milestone for Expansion

Salinas Soccer Expansion

Original article written by Adrienne Laurent for Greet HWY 68 Loop

After six years of rigorous environmental work and coordination with state regulators, the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex has completed a $2 million soil remediation project, clearing the way for its long-anticipated expansion.

The Complex has been working to finalize regulatory closure with the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) following the safe removal of arsenic-contaminated soil from a portion of the expansion site. The process required scraping the top 12 inches of soil across the area, relocating the contaminated material to a secure, designated location, and capping it. The site was then backfilled with clean soil, restoring the land to a condition suitable for recreational use.

“This is a major milestone,” said Jonathan De Anda, General Manager of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex. “The environmental work in our expansion area has been long and costly, but it was absolutely necessary to ensure the land is safe and ready to serve the community. Now we have the opportunity to build something that will create lasting benefits—from youth development and health to economic vitality—for Monterey County.”

Jonathan De Anda
Jonathan De Anda presenting to CALRC 20225

De Anda also recently presented the project’s progress to a statewide audience at the 2025 California Land Recycling Conference (CALRC 2025), as part of the Equitable Community Revitalization Grant program, which awarded $1,123,500 to support the cleanup.

With remediation complete, the Complex is now poised for its next phase of growth: the construction of seven additional full-size soccer fields and new sand courts for both sand soccer and sand volleyball. This vision, however, can only become a reality through the generosity of donors. As a non-profit organization, the Complex relies on contributions and fundraising to make expansion possible. Every new field, every new court, is built thanks to the commitment of community partners and donors who believe in investing in local youth, families, and recreation.

The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex, already one of the largest facilities of its kind on the Central Coast, serves thousands of soccer players and their families each weekend. With expansion, it will be the largest facility of its kind between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Young Professional of the Year Honoree: Jonathan De Anda

Original article from the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Journal.

Jonathan De Anda is the General Manager of the Salinas Regional Sports Authority, where he leads efforts to expand access to sports, wellness, and community development for thousands of local families each week.

He holds a Master of Science in Sport Management from the University of San Francisco and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Notre Dame de Namur University.

Beyond his professional role, Jonathan is deeply engaged in strengthening the community. He serves on the Advisory Council of the Siembra Latinos Fund at the Community Foundation for Monterey County, supporting philanthropy and equity for Latino families. He also coaches the York School boys’ soccer team, mentoring young athletes both on and off the field. With a passion for leveraging sports and service as tools for opportunity, Jonathan continues to create inclusive pathways for youth and families, helping shape a healthier, more connected Salinas Valley.

Salinas Regional Soccer Complex general manager Jonathan De Anda