Development, Dreams, and Goals: Jairo Archila of Magic Valley FC

"Soccer is in my blood"

​​Today's interview is brought to you by For the Love of Futbol. For the Love of Futbol is a blog dedicated to covering the lower level soccer scene in the Midwestern United States, and this site will give you player profiles, team updates, interviews and more with teams like Grand Rapids FC and Detroit City FC. Check them out at ftlofutbol.com to read more and keep up with exploding Midwestern soccer scene.

Welcome back to AP readers! Got a treat for you today. I got to interview the new United Professional Soccer League club Magic Valley FC. The leagues very first team in Idaho, and, far as I know, the first team from Idaho in an adult amateur league on a national or regional level, ever. Jairo Archila took some time to answer some questions about himself and the team, and what his hopes are for soccer in Idaho. Check it out.

​​​Tell me a little bit about yourself. Who you are, where you're from, what your role is with Magic Valley FC. 
My name is Jairo Archila. I am a very dedicated and motivated person, and I am also a family guy. I'm a father of 4 beautiful kids and married to a wonderful wife, Crystal Archlia. I am Guatemalan, and I represented my U23 national team. I currently own and am the founder of Magic Valley FC.

When did you first get interested in soccer in general and helping run a soccer team in particular? 
Soccer is in my blood; my father was a player in his early years and had opportunities to play in the first division in Guatemala but gave up, which made me push myself to complete where he left off. After a long term of traveling and no contract or team, I decided to retire the pro dream when I was only 23.

What's the story behind the creation of Magic Valley FC?
To help many kids out here in Idaho with talent to succeed, and try to accomplish a dream where many talented players don't give up because of the lack of opportunities.

How would you describe Twin Falls to someone who's never been there?
Twin Falls is a very green, very outdoor city with nice views such as Shoshone falls, the Canyon Rim, lakes and water falls. Idaho itself is a very nice and peaceful place with lots of outdoor activities. 

Tell me a little bit about the league you're in, the United Premier Soccer League. What kind of advantages does it have over other leagues that you could be part of, like the NPSL or PDL?
UPSL is a pro development league where you have opportunities to play in high level soccer, and have the opportunity to also qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. UPSL players also have the opportunity to get scouted and move on to the pro's just like NPSL and PDL.

NPSL and PDL, in my perspective,  don't have many advantages over UPSL for the reason that they are also pro development. Then of course they have a couple of advantages which includes that they are more expanded, which makes them a little tougher in competition. And both PDL & NPSL cost a little more money. UPSL teams develop enough talent to compete with NPSL or PDL teams. It's all in the players motivation to want it.

Are there any other teams in Idaho that might be joining you in the UPSL, or is that further down the road?
​Well as of right now none that I know of. There are bigger cities with the idea, like Boise and Idaho Falls. But neither have taken the opportunity and initiative to create something for their young talent.

Why should the average soccer fan, both in Idaho and across the US, care about a team in Twin Falls?
I think most fans want to see and support a team with heart and dedication to represent not only themselves but the state they are representing. Magic Valley FC is a team with heart and with young talent. Idaho doesn't have a pro team yet and we want to be the first ones to give, not only our families but Idaho itself, something more to love.

Cast a vision for me: Where do you want to see Magic Valley FC in 5 years?
I see Magic Valley FC as a door to a big opportunity to success. With God providing us the strength to succeed I see them in the future being Idaho's first USL team. 

Bonus Questions: What's your favorite book, regardless of genre? 
Bible.

Who's your favorite current soccer player, and your favorite past player? 
Steven Gerrard, Rivaldo. 

Do you have a favorite soccer book, movie or podcast?
Hermanos (brothers ) is a Venezuelan story of two brothers in poverty reaching and succeeding for their soccer dream.

What's your favorite league and/or team to watch?
La Liga and Barcelona

Where can people find out more about yourself and the team?
You can follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/Magicvalleyfc

What would you like to say to the people reading this article about why they should get out and support the lower levels of American soccer? 
The way I see it is that the fans are a big support and part of the team. Fans are the primary inspiration along with family to push Magic Valley FC to success. The support of fans and the people of not only Idaho but the entire nation will help young talent to stand out more. It will also provide opportunities to these talented players to reach a dream and goal: to succeed in becoming professionals. By your support greater and better things will come. 

Jairo, thanks for taking the time to do this. Remember, if you are enjoying the content I'm putting out, I'd encourage you to click here to Follow me on Twitter, or here to Like the page on Facebook.  And if you'd like to read these interviews before everyone else, and make sure you aren't missing anything, click here and sign up for the newsletter. You'll be the first to know when articles are released and learn about other exciting content down the road. Make sure to spread the word by sharing these interviews, telling friends about the blog, those kind of things. I can't accomplish my goal of maximum exposure for all levels of the American Soccer Pyramid without YOU. Until next time, Stay Loyal, Support Local.