24 Hour Fitness and Angel City FC Create Motivational Fantasy Camp for LA Youth

In a remarkable initiative aimed at uplifting young athletes from underserved communities, 24 Hour Fitness has rejoined forces with Angel City Football Club (ACFC) and the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks. On August 6, 2025, at the ACFC Performance Center located in Thousand Oaks, California, a unique soccer fantasy camp will welcome twenty aspiring athletes for a full day of sport, mentorship, and inspiration.

The event promises to be more than just a day of fun; it’s designed to empower participants by giving them a genuine taste of what it’s like to be part of a professional soccer team. Each camper will receive an official acceptance letter and wear custom jerseys, simulating a real draft experience. As they navigate through various activities—including a guided tour of the facility, mock interviews in a media room, and skill-enhancing soccer drills—the campers will benefit from behind-the-scenes coaching from current ACFC players.

Karl Sanft, CEO of 24 Hour Fitness, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "By partnering with Angel City FC and the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, we aim to equip these youth with the tools, coaching, and confidence they need to envision themselves as athletes and leaders, both on and off the field."

The future soccer stars will engage in a variety of high-energy rotations throughout the day. These rotations include a mini-player content shoot, a shooting challenge featuring inflatable goals, and an on-field soccer activity led by ACFC coaches. The day will culminate in an interactive Q&A session with four ACFC players, who will share their own journeys of perseverance and growth—stories that reflect the hard work and dedication it takes to excel in sports.

This fantasy camp is a continuation of a broader initiative between ACFC and LA Recreation and Parks aimed at enhancing access to soccer for girls and gender-expansive youth across Los Angeles. Initially launched last year, this partnership aims to engage over 15,000 youths annually through a combination of free and low-cost programming, leadership development opportunities, and a robust coaching structure that mirrors the commitment of 24 Hour Fitness to promote inclusive health and fitness initiatives.

Sulema Felix, Sr. Manager of Community Programs at ACFC, emphasized the organization’s mission: “It’s in Angel City FC's DNA to empower young girls and gender-expansive youth, breaking down barriers in sports. Partnering with 24 Hour Fitness and LA Recreation and Parks to make this experience accessible to those who might not otherwise have such opportunities aligns perfectly with our core mission.”

The ACFC Fantasy Camp is part of a comprehensive strategy to address equity gaps in youth sports, striving to ensure that every child, irrespective of their background, can move, play, and dream big. This alignment of values between local organizations and the significant investment in community-driven initiatives marks a pivotal moment in fostering the next generation of athletes.

As the camp unfolds, it serves as a reminder that sports can be a powerful platform for personal and communal growth. With encouraging guidance and resources, young athletes can envision a future where they not only participate in sports but also influence change and promote inclusivity in their communities.

About 24 Hour Fitness

For over four decades, 24 Hour Fitness has committed itself to creating a healthier, happier world through fitness. Their facilities offer ample space filled with premium strength and cardio equipment, turf zones, free weights, and functional training areas. Members can partake in various activities, including studio and cycle classes, personal training sessions, and online fitness offerings to maintain their physical well-being. More information can be found at www.24hourfitness.com.

About Angel City Football Club

Entering its fourth season in 2025 at BMO Stadium, Angel City FC is a trailblazer in women’s soccer, co-founded by notable figures in entertainment and venture capital. Led by Willow Bay and Bob Iger, ACFC aims to impact the community positively by promoting access and representation in the female sports landscape. To get tickets, visit angelcity.com or engage with them on their social media at @weareangelcity.