SF Seals Scholarship Fund

SF Seals is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to making high level, competitive soccer accessible to families from all economic backgrounds. The organization dedicates a significant portion of its budget for scholarships to families who demonstrate financial need.

Geographic Scope: San Francisco, CA

Eligibility:

• Players participating in SF Seals programs (travel teams, recreation, and micro soccer)
• Families must demonstrate financial need
• Must provide supporting financial documentation

Scholarship Levels:

• 50% Scholarship: Available to any applicant with household income equal to or less than 250% of the current federal poverty level (as determined by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Federal Poverty Guidelines)
  • Family of 2: $52,875
  • Family of 3: $66,625
  • Family of 4: $80,375
  • Add $13,750 for each additional family member
• 100% Scholarship: Offered to up to 2 team members who meet the 50% scholarship income standard AND participate in any 2 of the following:
  • Medi-Cal (provide current Notice of Action letter)
  • CalWORKS (provide current Notice of Action letter)
  • Food Stamp (provide current Notice of Action letter)
  • Public Housing Authority (provide rent receipt)
• Additional Scholarships: SF Seals may provide additional scholarships from 25% to 100% based on demonstrated need

What is Covered:

• Registration fees for all club programs
• Financial aid assurance applies to travel team players and recreation and micro soccer players

What is Not Covered:

• Personal equipment (uniforms, cleats, shin guards, etc.)
• Team expenses (snacks, parties, out-of-pocket expenses)
• Player travel fees
• Tournament fees (beyond the one included in program fee)
• FEST showcase costs and accommodations

Application Requirements:

• Current IRS 1040 or parents' current Pay Stubs (copy required)
• Supporting documents must be uploaded to qualify
• Initial deposit of $500 (refunded if player does not accept scholarship)

Processing: Application processing time can take up to two weeks. Scholarships are not retroactive.

Additional Resources: http://sfrecpark.org/408/Apply-for-a-Scholarship

Scholarship Application Process

1. Gather Required Documents:
   • Copy of current IRS 1040 form, OR
   • Parents' current Pay Stubs
   • Supporting documentation for public benefits (if applying for 100% scholarship):
   • Medi-Cal: Current Notice of Action letter
   • CalWORKS: Current Notice of Action letter
   • Food Stamp: Current Notice of Action letter
   • Public Housing Authority: Rent receipt
2. Submit Application:
   • Complete the Scholarship Application form (linked on website)
   • Upload all required supporting documents
   • All information provided is kept confidential
3. Payment:
   • Submit application with Deposit or Initial Payment
   • Initial deposit of $500 is refunded if player does not accept scholarship offer
4. Processing:
   • Application processing time can take up to two weeks
   • Scholarships are not retroactive
5. Timeline:
   • Scholarship application is due with the Deposit or Initial Payment