North Carolina Client: Mery Herdoiza & Carlos Leonardo Mera
Turning Passion for Soccer into a Thriving Business
Originally from Ecuador, Mery Herdoiza and Carlos Leonardo Mera began their entrepreneurial journey with a shared passion for soccer and a desire to create opportunities for young people in their community. In July 2022, they officially established Leo’s Professional Soccer Coaching, LLC in Sanford, North Carolina, offering training programs focused on developing physical, technical, and tactical soccer skills, as well as psychosocial skills that strengthen teamwork, discipline, and personal growth among players. As they worked to bring their vision to life, Mery and Carlos realized they needed guidance to navigate the business landscape in the United States.
Finding Guidance to Build a Strong Foundation
In March 2022, Mery and Carlos connected with Prospera and scheduled an appointment to explore how they could strengthen their business. At that time, they were seeking clarity on how to structure their business, understand financial systems, and prepare for access to capital. Through Prospera’s workshops and personalized business consulting services, they gained valuable knowledge about how businesses operate in North Carolina, including financial management, business structure, and compliance requirements. This guidance helped them better organize their operations and prepare for growth.
Growing a Business with Community Impact
With a stronger foundation in place, Mery and Carlos were able to take meaningful steps toward advancing their business. Through the knowledge and preparation they gained, they identified the requirements needed to apply for and access capital, which allowed them to invest in their operations and grow their academy. Their impact extends beyond the field, as they view soccer as an opportunity to guide and inspire younger generations in their personal and community development. As active members of their local church and with the support of various organizations, they work to create opportunities and spaces for growth while helping lay the foundation for strengthening the Christian youth soccer league in Sanford.
Expanding the Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Mery and Carlos are focused on evolving their academy into a more structured and competitive program. Their goal is to develop a formal model that will allow them to compete in higher-level leagues, including the United Premier Soccer League, one of the fastest-growing platforms for emerging clubs in the United States. Through this process, they aim to expand opportunities for the next generation of soccer players while continuing to strengthen the development of soccer within their community.
Building with Purpose
Reflecting on their journey, they emphasize the importance of preparation and continuous learning.
“Prepare yourself, gain as much knowledge as you can, and educate yourself about how businesses operate. No matter what type of business you have, it is important to trust organizations that are willing to support you, like Prospera, so you can continue moving forward.”
Mery Herdoiza and Carlos Leonardo Mera continue strengthening Leo’s Professional Soccer Coaching, LLC with a clear vision centered on youth development and community impact. Their experience demonstrates how passion, preparation, and the right guidance can help transform a shared dream into a growing organization that creates opportunities for athletes. As their academy continues expanding in North Carolina, they remain focused on building a structured program that supports both athletic and personal development for the next generation.
