Founded in 1990, Nova Iguaçu Futebol Clube (NIFC), originated from the idea and common effort of local businessmen, led by President Janio Moraes, and other residents in the city of Nova Iguaçu, district in the suburbs of Rio de Janeiro.  They were looking for a viable option to give less fortunate kids hope to prosper in life outside street hardships and crime.  In the beginning, there were only a set of uniforms and a group of players eager to play and represent the colors (Orange & White) of the club.  Access to adequate soccer fields and proper training equipment were at the time only a few of the obstacles faced by a determined group of entrepreneurs inspired by the dream of social equality.

After acquiring a federal grant for over 120,000 m2 of land during Zico’s mandate as state Minister of sports, the club started building a training complex.  In the beginning, the emphasis was mainly in developing an infrastructure that would combine quality soccer fields and qualified human resources.  Therefore, one official size grass field, two training grass fields, three short-sided grass fields, and a sand beach court were built as first priority.  In addition, a professional coaching staff was brought along and complemented by a medical department composed of a doctor, physical therapist, dentist, nutritionist, and a psychologist.

The initial hard work paid off and around the mid 90’s, NIFC was already an established force competing in the youth levels of both state and suburban leagues.  The first generation of players who were now part of the club’s professional squad competing in the state 2nd division started to raise some eyebrows and attract interest from 1st division clubs around the country.  By the late 90’s, NIFC was faced with a critical dilemma: should they allow their top players to transfer and raise the probability of success and national exposure playing for bigger and more traditional teams, or should they keep them around and try to compete for the right and privilege to play in the state 1st division league.  Apparently, the right decision was made when they released three of their most promising young guns.  Deivid, Schwenk and Marcio Careca, all transferred to 1st division teams and started on a bright path of individual success, as well as revealing to the entire country the quality and reputation of Nova Iguaçu F. C. as a successful youth development program.

Deivid, a strong and fast forward with great technique and equally dangerous strike power on both legs, started to make his way into the starting line up of Santos F.C.  The success and national recognition as one of the top forwards in Brazil came after he transferred to Corinthians, the club with the 2nd largest fan base in Brazil.  The exposure paid off valuable dividends after Corinthians made an offer to buy his player rights from Nova Iguaçu F.C.  The club’s first major return on their investment was quickly applied to further expanding the dream of having one of the top club infrastructures in Brazil.  Two new official size grass fields were introduced, in addition to a modern facility, which includes: a medical department, coaches department, weight room, leisure lounge, dorms, and a futsal court.

Approaching 2006, the club has consolidated its reputation for having one of the top 5 youth developmental programs in the country.  Furthermore, it has achieved their goal to play in the Rio de Janeiro state 1st division professional league among top traditional clubs like C.R. Flamengo, Botafogo F.R., C.R.Vasco da Gama, and Fluminese F.C.  Fifteen years since it all began, Nova Iguaçu F.C. is viewed by the media and experts, as one of the new forces in the Brazilian soccer scenario.  Financially sound, with a very successful youth program and a promising professional path, the club is proving that investing in soccer can be more than a good business decision, but also a powerful tool to help build a healthier and more productive society.