We are the Des Moines Congolese Soccer Team established in 2014 a team built on passion, resilience, and the desire to represent our community on a larger stage, earning the distinction of being the best African team in the United States. The team is affectionately known as "Banaponga," a term that resonates deeply within the community. This remarkable squad, celebrated for its inclusivity and diversity, has welcomed individuals from various cultural backgrounds, languages, and walks of life, fostering an environment of mutual respect, friendship, and equality. From humble beginnings competing against local teams, the DMCST has ascended to participate in state-level competitions, accumulating an impressive array of trophies, including the UNITED BABONDO YOUTH FOUNDATION tournament in Kansas (2019), the Mount Zion CUP (2022/23), and the REFUGEE DAY TOURNAMENT (2022/2023). The impressive record also boasts three finalist positions at the Indoors Grand View Tournament (2019), solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the soccer world.