LAAYOUNE, MOROCCO/SYRACUE, N.Y. — Leadership from AC Syracuse Pulse has joined the club’s president and owner Samir Belhseine this week on a humanitarian trip to Morocco — Belhseine’s home country — along with representative from the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA), medical professionals from Operation Walk New York and Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists, and soccer coaches from Spain, Portugal, and Cayman Islands.

Meetings were held throughout the week in Laayoune, Morocco, with the Chamber of Commerce and business organizations, international football/soccer organizations, and the Ministry of Health and hospital officials. The focus of the humanitarian journey was the establishment of the AC Syracuse Pulse Academy in Laayoune, Morocco (the firsts such academy has been established in Syracuse, N.Y.), which will blend athletics with education. Other donations and outreach efforts includes walkers, medical supplies, plans for orthopedic operations in 2022, hundreds of books for the school, and more than 100 complete soccer uniforms, soccer balls, and athletic gear.

“The commitment this club is showing to relevant communities around the globe underscores how community outreach and connection isn’t defined solely by proximity to the stadium,” said Josh Prutch, executive vice president of the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA).

“Being asked to accompany Samir and the AC Syracuse contingent to Morocco is indicative of how NISA will follow the lead of member clubs.”

AC Syracuse recently entered into a mutual partnership with Regional Football League — Laayoune Sakia El Hamra in Morocco to strengthen and activate the capabilities and opportunities for youth. The partnership fosters learning and development and allows for increased international expansion and recognition. There will be shared education, coaching, and training, and international travel for tournaments.

Belhseine is the first Moroccan native to own an American soccer team. AC Syracuse Pulse comprises a pro men’s team, semi-pro men’s and women’s teams, and the youth academy.

“We have received an overwhelmingly warm welcome, as we are here to begin building bridges form Morocco to Syracuse and all of America, as well as to Spain, Portugal, and the Cayman Islands,” Belhseine said. “As a proud Moroccan and U.S. citizen, I humbled and happy to be here, to help the youth of Laayoune through the AC Syracuse Pulse Youth Academy, to create a path for college and future successes, perhaps even playing professional soccer. The opportunities for youth go far beyond the game, as young players learn sportsmanship, teamwork, and strength, and build character.”

At the AC Syracuse youth academies in Syracuse and Laayoune, learning will take place on the field as well in the classrooms, as students learn English and study computer and software technology, nutrition, and communications.

About AC Syracuse Pulse

AC Syracuse is a community based professional soccer club in Syracuse, N.Y.  The team will lace up the boots in their inaugural season to compete in the National Independent Soccer Association in 2022. Our mission is to provide the ultimate fan experience at an affordable cost, promoting and enhancing the game of soccer for the fans.  AC Syracuse will be the team that soccer fans look to for excitement, engagement and community—and the team that every player wants to play for. We will reflect diversity and inclusiveness and will strive to set the standard of excellence for professional soccer organizations. For more information, please visit ACSyracuse.com or contacts us at info@acsyracuse.com. Join our social media communities @ACSyracuse on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.