Our Story
Des Moines Panthers FC was founded in 2016 by Emmanuel Atanga in Grimes, Iowa as a social recreational group — a community-oriented club that focuses on playing football (soccer) with kids and parents running for enjoyment rather than competition.
From the very beginning, the vision was simple: create a friendly, welcoming environment where members of all skill levels could meet new people, stay active, and enjoy the sport together. No tryouts. No fees. No pressure.
Where We've Played
Panthers FC has grown far beyond Grimes. We've organized and participated in games across the region:
📍 Ottumwa, IA
📍 Minnesota
📍 Omaha, NE
📍 Chicago, IL
📍 Iowa City, IA
📍 Sioux City, IA
Our Values
Family Involvement
We make donations to visit members when a new baby is born. We provide bereavement support when a member is grieving. Family is not just a word — it's what we do.
Open Doors
We guide new members from different states to Iowa — which neighborhood to rent, where to buy a home, job opportunities, where to fix your car. Our phone numbers are always open for help.
Connections
We welcome new immigrants to the community — helping with job applications, driving lessons, getting a license, obtaining a first car, directions to health centers, immigration lawyers, and state housing resources.
Sunday Schedule
⚽ 4:00 PM — Football (Soccer) Training
🏃 5:00 PM — Kids Fun Run + Adult Fitness Run
🍖 5:30 PM — Community BBQ
📍 312 SE 11th St, Grimes, IA 50111
🏃 5:00 PM — Kids Fun Run + Adult Fitness Run
🍖 5:30 PM — Community BBQ
📍 312 SE 11th St, Grimes, IA 50111