ZUNI, NM (Oct. 25, 2024) — Earlier this month, the Zuni Youth Enrichment Project wrapped up its fall soccer leagues for 4- to 7-year-olds. This was a special season for ZYEP and the community, as the games for the younger children took place in Zuni Pueblo for the first time in more than a decade.
Fifteen community coaches and 56 children participated this year, divided between the Shiwi League ages 4-5 and the Zuni League for ages 6-7. Made possible with support from Nike and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the program ran from Aug. 26 to Oct. 6, with games taking place at Ho’n A:wan Park every Sunday.
According to ZYEP Physical Activity Coordinator Tyler Sice, the youth project moved its soccer games to Gallup, New Mexico, when it added additional youth sports that also needed to use Ho’n A:wan’s turf field, such as flag football.
“These last few years, however, we recognized that traveling to Gallup for games wasn’t equitable to all families, especially those with younger players who were just getting a feel for the game,” he explained. “We wanted to make sure the program was accessible to all, so we decided to host our two leagues for the younger children here.”
The older, more competitive leagues for players ages 8-14 are still playing each year in the Gallup travel league. Regardless of whether youth are playing in Zuni or Gallup, however, ZYEP provides gear and uniforms, and it covers any necessary registration costs.
“It was great to build the foundation for our youngest players right here at ZYEP, preparing them for competitive play,” Sice said. “We want to build holistic players who can transfer the skills they learn from soccer to everyday life as disciplined leaders.”
In addition, Sice said the coaches are preparing the younger players for competitive play in Gallup as they get older, noting, “We are very proud of our older players who go out and represent Zuni and ZYEP in Gallup. They have great sportsmanship and always try their best.”
Danielle Dosedo, parent of player Amir Lesanee, said she loved seeing how much the children improved throughout the season.
“In the beginning, they were all over the place, but now they are starting to learn the concepts of soccer,” she said. “My favorite moments during practices and games were when they had fun with each other. I also like the way the coaches are so involved with their players, and how they communicate with us personally about everything.”
Maria, the parent of first-time player Eli, said she appreciates that the coaches teach players about responsibility and patience. She said she loves seeing the players improve, as well.
“Eli is my firstborn, so seeing him learn knew things and accomplish new things makes me happy, as well as seeing other people’s children do the same,” she reflected. “This is our first time with ZYEP. The kids were interested but were afraid to get out there. They like it, and now they want to keep coming back!”
The community coaches said they also appreciated seeing the children come out of their shells as the season went on. Zuni League Coach Tahliyah Scott, 18, said her highlights included the connection the kids built with them as coaches — and the way they opened up, feeling more comfortable just being themselves.
“We saw how far the kids came from the beginning of the season to the games (at the end),” she said. “It showed us that we taught them a lot when it comes to soccer.”
Shiwi League Coach Lillian Seowtewa, 18, said it was fun to get to know each child better and see them start to work as a team. Another highlight, she said, was experiencing the level of community engagement.
“It is really nice to see the community come together to support our youth through sports,” she said. “ZYEP is like a big family.”
Through its Youth Sport initiative, ZYEP connects with more than 500 youth annually. In addition to soccer, young people are able to take advantage of seasonal leagues in flag football, basketball and T-ball as well. More importantly, they have access to mentorship through ZYEP’s staff and coaches, camaraderie with teammates throughout the leagues, and powerful community spirit.
To learn more about the Zuni Youth Enrichment Project and its programs, and for information about making donations, partnering with ZYEP, and volunteering, call (505) 782-8000 or visit zyep.org. And, to stay up to date on the latest news and events, follow the nonprofit youth organization on Facebook (/zuniyouthenrichmentproject), Instagram (@zuniyouthenrichmentproject), YouTube (/ZuniYouth), and TikTok (/zyep09)
Founded in 2009, the nonprofit Zuni Youth Enrichment Project is dedicated to promoting resilience among Zuni youth so they will grow into strong, healthy adults who are connected with Zuni traditions. ZYEP fulfills its mission by providing positive role models, enriching programs, and nurturing spaces that contribute to the healthy development of Zuni youth. ZYEP strives to provide every child with the encouragement and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.
