Courtesy: Los Angeles Times


Torrance soccer center up for vote tonight

July 8, 2009

by Gerrick Kennedy

Torrance could become home to one of the largest indoor soccer centers in the region if plans for a 73,00-square-foot project are approved tonight by the Planning Commission.

South Coast Soccer City would include seven fields, locker rooms, a 4,400-square-foot training area, rehabilitation area and a 60-yard-long running track. There would be four party rooms for private birthday celebrations, a homework area, television and lounge area, a snack shop and a pro shop.

Kevin Gilmore, one of the founders, said he and his business partner came up with the idea because they both have children who play without many places to practice.


“We thought the marketplace, with the lack of quality fields, was prime for something like this,” Gilmore said. “There’s such a high level of soccer in Southern California and you have a lack of fields and a growing demand.”

Gilmore said indoor soccer, known as futsal, is one of the fastest-growing indoor sports, and the Torrance center would be the largest of its kind in California and possibly the nation. The proposed location is a former women's apparel shipping plant on Maple Avenue that has been vacant for 18 months.

If approved, the center would open in October or November.

“This is going to be great in our community," said Mayor Frank Scotto, a soccer fan himself. "All these years we’ve needed this type of indoor facility. They are making this a premier soccer facility, not just some run-of-the-mill thing.”

Scotto said that while revenue would be minimal, the center would provide jobs for residents and a safe environment for children to play in year-round and improve their skills.

“Unless there’s a hiccup tonight, it’s done,” Scotto said. “We haven’t heard of anyone that’s opposed to it. [The facility is] located in an area that shouldn’t impact anyone. It couldn’t be a better located place.”

The Planning Commission meeting begins at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 3031 Torrance Blvd.






Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com