Most youth soccer teams get sponsorships from local pizzerias or a parent’s local business, but Oak Park’s Los Jaguares are being sponsored by the alternative metal band Deftones.
The Sacramento band’s frontman, Chino Moreno, born Camillo Wong Moreno, is Mexican American. Moreno formed the band with guitarist Stephen Carpenter and drummer Abe Cunningham in 1988. Bassist Chi Cheng joined the band in 1990 and keyboardist Frank Delgado joined in 1999. They have released 10 studio albums, with their latest, “Private Music,” released this year.
Los Jaguares is a team of 11-14-year-old boys and girls who are now sporting black and green Deftones soccer jerseys. They designed custom jerseys and a soccer ball that make up the team’s official kits for 2026.
The Deftones created the jerseys with GOAL Projects.
“The collaboration brings Deftones back to the neighborhood where the band began, aligning their creative identity with the team’s local story,” a statement in the GOALS Project site says. “Together with GOAL Projects, the band co-designed Los Jaguares’ official 2026 jersey and a limited-edition soccer ball, both released to help strengthen the program that serves 11–14-year-olds in one of Sacramento’s most underserved areas.”
According to the GOALS Project website, Los Jaguares is made up largely of first-generation Mexican immigrant youth.
The band invited the Los Jaguares players to attend the Aftershock Festival in October. Following the show, the young players met the band backstage, where Deftones presented the new jerseys in person.
“When we heard about this group of kids growing up in our hometown in need of support, we jumped at the opportunity,” Deftones shared. “Soccer and music are both about connection and expression. We’re stoked to be able to give back and make a positive change in their lives, and we hope to encourage them to continue pursuing their dreams despite any odds.”
“For the students benefiting from this collaboration, being seen and acknowledged by one of our most successful local bands is powerful,” Street Soccer USA Sacramento managing director Lisa Wrightsman said. “Oak Park is home to many underserved and underrepresented families. Having the Deftones shine a light on them is something they’ll remember forever — and an opportunity to play more, work hard, and be proud.”
For those who want to sport a Deftones jersey and support the local youth program, the band is offering a limited number on sale at shopdeftones.com. The soccer ball has already sold out. Proceeds from the release directly support Street Soccer USA Sacramento, helping keep soccer free for every participant and covering essential needs such as coaching, field access, equipment and wraparound support.