On March 28, 2025, the sun was shining and spirits were high at Transfiguration School in Leimert Park, as IAFE United launched its Inaugural Goal-A-Thon—a dynamic, daylong fundraiser that blended fitness, fun, and community.

The event kicked off with an electrifying performance by Transfiguration’s CYO award-winning Eagles’ Cheerleading Team, who energized the crowd with a special cheer and dance routine. Their spirit set the tone for a day filled with excitement, teamwork, and friendly competition.

Throughout the day, students from every class took their shot in a lively penalty kick (PK) competition, aiming at goals defended by their fellow classmates. Between rounds, students tackled a series of soccer-themed obstacle courses and drills—racing through speed ladders, bouncing soccer balls of their head challenges, weaving through agility poles, and leaping over hurdles.

Leading many of the day’s activities were Coach Ivan Kolleff and his wife, Coach Habeebah “Coach Bee”, the dynamic husband-and-wife coaching team from IAFE United’s Soccer Program. They shared their passion for the game through additional skill-building drills, helping students develop a deeper love and excitement for soccer.

True to IAFE United’s mission of promoting healthy living and youth empowerment, students stayed energized with healthy snacks of granola bars and water provided throughout the day.

The success of the Goal-A-Thon would not have been possible without the incredible leadership and collaboration of Transfiguration’s Principal and proud alumna, Mrs. Evelyn Rickenbacker, who worked closely with Coach and Seventh Grade Teacher, Mr. Hasani LaFall. Behind the scenes, Mrs. Jessica Echeverri, the School Office Secretary, played a vital role in ensuring smooth communication and coordination for the event. A very special thank you also goes to the amazing Student Government Association (SGA) volunteers, who worked tirelessly throughout the day assisting with organization, keeping events on schedule, and making sure everything ran smoothly. Their leadership and energy truly helped bring the day together!

In just one week, the Goal-A-Thon raised an impressive over $7,000, thanks to the heartfelt support of students’ families, guardians, and friends. Donations were managed through the GiveSmart platform, where each student received a personal fundraising page they could share through text, email, and social media.

The competition didn’t end on the field. Students eagerly competed for fundraising prizes: the top earners had the chance to be Principal for the Day, Teacher for the Day, receive the coveted free dress passes, win generous gift cards, and enjoy a special lunch.

Congratulations to the top student fundraisers: RaMaya S., Avery E., and Autumn B.! A special shoutout goes to the Fifth Grade class, which raised over $300 more than the Eighth Grade class, winning themselves a celebratory pizza party.

Adding to the excitement, the top donor of the event received a football autographed by Los Angeles Chargers’ 2023 first-round draft pick, Wide Receiver Quentin Johnston—a true collector’s item, generously donated by the Chargers.

The Goal-A-Thon was more than just a fundraiser—it was a celebration of community, school pride, and youth development. At IAFE United, we believe that grassroots fundraisers are key to making lasting impacts in students’ lives. They help enrich school programs, empower the next generation, and create memories that students, families, and the community will cherish for years to come.

Partnering with Transfiguration, a cornerstone in the Leimert Park area, showed the true strength of community collaboration. Together, we witnessed the powerful combination of education, athletics, leadership, and service in action—paving the way for a brighter future, one goal at a time.

At IAFE United, we are proud to offer not just programs but partnership opportunities. If your school or organization has a special cause, we can bring our out-of-the-box creative thinking, technology, and experience to host your next fundraiser. Let’s work together to make a lasting impact!

For more information about how IAFE United continues to empower youth through education, mentorship, and sports, visit www.iafeunited.org.