Inside the story of a barangay where football became more than a game—it became a lifeline.
In the crowded heart of Quezon City’s District 1, amid narrow streets and everyday hustle, a spark of passion lit up in 2014. That spark came from Rodolfo M. Ubales Jr., a man whose family has always lived and breathed football. His dream was simple yet powerful: give the youth of Barangay Santo Cristo something more than routine, something that could shape their futures. Out of that dream, Barangay Santo Cristo Football Club (SCFC) was born.
Carrying the Name, Carrying the Pride
The club’s name is more than a label—it’s an identity. By carrying “Barangay Santo Cristo,” the team wears its community on its chest, representing not just the sport but the hopes, struggles, and resilience of the people who call Santo Cristo home.
Filling Empty Weekends With Purpose
Back then, children had few structured activities on weekends. Many spent time idle, without spaces that could nurture discipline or imagination. Ubales saw that void and filled it with futsal. With just a ball, flat shoes, and a little space, kids learned teamwork, agility, and joy. For many, it became their first gateway to the wider world of football—a world brimming with opportunity.
Built on Sacrifice and Spirit
From the beginning, SCFC ran on community love, not money. Membership was free, so no child was left behind. Coaches volunteered without asking for pay, while parents sent their children off with “baon” and cheered on the sidelines. The Barangay Council, NGOs, and the Quezon City Football Club stepped in with logistical and moral support.
The early years were proof that when a community rallies behind its children, dreams take root.
Football for All
Every Saturday morning, from the first whistle to the last, Santo Cristo’s field becomes more than a pitch—it becomes a classroom for life.
- Age Groups: Kids as young as 4 to teens over 17 all find a place.
- Coaching Philosophy: Open to all, regardless of background or ability.
- Head Coach: Guided by Coach Mark Reyes, also head coach of San Francisco FC, who brings valuable experience to the grassroots.
A Family That Football Built
What makes SCFC extraordinary isn’t just football—it’s the culture. Parents pitch in with food and drinks. Schools like Sto. Cristo Elementary and San Francisco High School open their doors for training. Coaches mentor not only with drills but with lessons about character, discipline, and resilience.
Here, every player is more than a number. They are family.
Achievements That Inspire
From humble beginnings, SCFC has steadily climbed the ladder of recognition:
- 2014–2016: Won the Fair Play Award, launched Copa De Los Niños, clinched futsal and street football titles.
- 2018–2023: Players trained internationally (Malaysia, FC Barcelona Academy), earned junior coaching licenses, won back-to-back NCAA crowns.
- 2024–2025: Women’s and youth teams flourished, bagging individual awards (MVP, Top Scorer, Best Goalkeeper), while the club gained recognition as a TELUS Philippines community partner.
- Scholars: Players secured scholarships with PCU, PUP, and Aquinas—proof that football here isn’t just a game, but a bridge to education.
David vs. Goliath
Perhaps the most unforgettable chapter came in the DepEd-QC Division Meet. Representing Sto. Cristo Elementary, SCFC faced giants Ateneo and Claret. Some kids borrowed boots and shin guards, others played with barely enough gear. Yet against all odds, they finished third—an achievement that shook District 1 with pride.
That day, Santo Cristo showed what grassroots football truly means: heart over resources, courage over comfort.
Challenges That Remain
Despite their success, SCFC faces the same hurdles as many grassroots clubs: lack of stable funding, limited equipment, no permanent training ground. Yet their spirit refuses to waver. With stronger support, their dream is clear—to expand programs, empower more homegrown coaches, and give even more children the gift of opportunity through football.
Message to the Youth
For Ubales and the SCFC family, the message is simple but profound:
“Try football—you may discover doors you never imagined could open.”
OneFutbol’s Note
Barangay Santo Cristo FC is proof that football’s true magic isn’t found under stadium lights—it’s found in barangay streets, in borrowed shoes, in the courage of children chasing a ball and, with it, a future.
At OneFutbol, we celebrate SCFC’s journey: a story of passion, resilience, and community pride that reminds us the beautiful game is at its most powerful when it belongs to everyone.
To support Brgy.Sto.Cristo Football Club, you can reach out or follow them here:
- Facebook: Brgy.Sto.Cristo Football Club
- Contact Person: Rodolfo Ubales Jr. – Program Manager (+63936-962-8416)
