Our story

How AFJC began

A team built from prayer, Scripture, and a passion for football — serving people in Charlotte through the Gospel.

AFJC team photo

AFJC • Charlotte, NC

One team. One mission. One message.

From vision to reality

A mission on the field

AFJC started when a clear calling met practical need: a place where young people can grow, compete, and encounter Christ.

Founder Ioann Aksenov received a vision from God through 2 Corinthians 5:18–21 — that football can become a platform for reconciliation with God.

Ioann was trained from childhood by his father, head coach Vyacheslav Aksenov, and later experienced high-level football development before moving to the U.S.

After an injury in a semi-pro league, Ioann chose a new direction: to invest into kits, equipment, and a team that will serve the city with faith and excellence.

Identity

“The fragrance of the knowledge of Christ”

We want our presence — on the pitch and in the community — to reflect Jesus: respect, humility, and selfless love.

3 words

Prayer • Respect • Dedication

Leadership

Christian coaches & mentors

Timeline

Key moments

A short overview you can expand later with photos, documents, and testimonies.

1

A vision from Scripture

AFJC began as a spiritual calling shaped by 2 Corinthians 5:18–21.

2

A life shaped by football

From age 5, Ioann was trained intentionally, including mentorship and elite development experiences.

3

A new start in the U.S.

After moving to the U.S. and facing injury, the focus shifted from personal career to ministry through sport.

4

Investing into the mission

Thousands of dollars were invested into uniforms and equipment to launch the team.

5

Serving Charlotte through football

Today AFJC trains weekly and plays in a local amateur league while welcoming immigrants and locals.

Leadership

Coaches & key roles

Christian leadership that keeps the mission and the culture healthy.

Vyacheslav Aksenov

Head Coach

Guides training and overall development — building discipline, respect, and football fundamentals.

Ioann Aksenov

Founder • Playing Coach • Captain

Leads the team’s vision and culture: prayer, unity, and excellence on and off the pitch.

Emma Aksenova

Media (Photo & Video)

Captures matches, goals, and recaps — helping share the mission through highlights and stories.

Roster

Meet the team

A growing squad of local and immigrant players — training twice a week and competing every Sunday night.

Vyacheslav
Coach

Vyacheslav

Ioann
Coach

Ioann

Karen
Player

Karen

Slava
Player

Slava

Alex
Player

Alex

Radmir
Player

Radmir

Kiril
Player

Kiril

Bogdan
Player

Bogdan

Michael
Player

Michael

Mark
Player

Mark

Denis
Player

Denis

Chandler
Player

Chandler

This is just the beginning

AFJC is growing season by season. If you want to build something meaningful through football, join us.