If you build it--and not just the program, but the attitude--it will grow. As you pointed out, many of the great players from other countries didn't get that way from spending big money to train at powerhouse clubs. They got that way playing in their backyards and making it a way of life.
Make it something they enjoy doing, win or lose, and more will join in. Make it something they value, and you'll have them asking to take balls home with them--suddenly "practice" isn't enough practice for them; they'll want to kick a ball around on the weekends. Let them take a few balls home, and next they'll be gathering for pick-up games...playing unsupervised...bringing in people off the street who are liable to show up at your tryouts one year wanting to play this "elite" sport...possibly picking up some "bad" habits right along with the skills...
...and following a recipe for success that's worked all over the world.
Keep it up...it won't happen overnight, or even over a couple of seasons, probably. But it can happen.
