CAROLINA CORE, N.C. (January 24, 2024) - Carolina Core FC, an independent club that will join MLS NEXT Pro in 2024, has partnered with Jeff B Auto Sales INC, a NC Core based car dealership and body shop, as a signature sponsor.
The multi-year agreement designates Jeff B Auto Sales INC as an official signature sponsor of Carolina Core FC. The dealership’s name and logo will be prominently displayed on the front of the Carolina Core FC’s and CCFC Academy’s training tops. These tops will be worn by the professional and MLS NEXT elite youth players throughout training sessions and match day warm-ups.
Beginning operations in 2013, Leonel Villatoro, owner of Jeff B Auto Sales INC, had a vision to build an organization committed to giving premier level automotive service to The Core and beyond. The company originally began as only a body shop. After years of dedicated service, the organization expanded into the dealership region. While evolving into a larger organization, Jeff B Auto Sales INC maintained its vision to build strong community relationships. The company’s philanthropic values align with the mission of Carolina Core FC and CCFC Academy. The CCFC Academy provides a fully funded environment for elite youth players to have access to the MLS Pro Pathway.
“Leonel and I are both Hondurans that have come to The Core to make a positive impact. Carolina Core FC is dedicated to using soccer as a way to advance the NC Core community and the next generation of professional players,” said former MLS MVP and CCFC Assistant Coach, Amado Guevarra.
“We are committed to supporting Carolina Core FC as they’re entering their inaugural season. We see the benefit that it will provide for the youth in the area, giving them something to look forward to,” said Jeff B Auto Sales INC owner, Leonel. “We are excited to work together on this project, not only for a short period but for the future. This isn’t just temporary for us; we’re excited to see the growth of Carolina Core FC and The Core region. Not only within the Hispanic community, but within the entire community.”
After the expansion of the company into automotive sales, Leonel decided that the company’s branding should reflect their new goals while remembering where the organization originated. The dealership took on the namesake of his son, Jeff Villatoro, and kept the “B” for body shop. The organization began doing business under the name Jeff B Auto Sales INC, offering automotive repair, such as mechanical maintenance and paint jobs, as well as vehicle sales to the NC Core community.
“We are thrilled to partner with Jeff B Auto Sales INC. Leonel and his team treated us like family and their dedication to servicing the community was apparent from day one,” said Director of Business Development John Wermeling. “We are excited to work with Jeff B Auto Sales INC in the coming years to help grow the game locally and showcase The Core’s talent around the country. Jeff B Auto Sales INC have been a pillar in the local Hispanic community, and we are proud to partner with them.”
“The truth is, we came to this country for opportunity, and we hope to inspire the next generation," said Leonel.
Carolina Core FC will begin preseason training on January 29th with Jeff B Auto Sale INC’s logo prominently on the front of their training tops. The dealership’s branding will also be featured on the scoreboard and signage at the stadium.
ABOUT Carolina Core FC
Founded in 2022, Carolina Core FC is an independent professional men’s soccer club that will begin play in MLS NEXT Pro in 2024. The club’s local owners are dedicated to community development through its on-field and off-field activities. Carolina Core FC has diligently worked behind the scenes to build together its experienced executive staff, including High Point Native, Eddie Pope as the Chief Sporting Officer. Eddie is a former U.S. Men’s National Team, MLS legend and USSF Hall of Famer. #CCFC will play its home matches in High Point, N.C. at Truist Point, the $38 million stadium located in the revitalized downtown social district. Supporters can join the club by securing a season seat and ordering Carolina Core FC merchandise at www.carolinacorefc.com.
