ZUNI, NM (Oct. 29, 2025) — On Sunday, Oct. 19, the Zuni Youth Enrichment Project wrapped up another successful fall sports season after six weeks filled with teamwork, competition, enthusiasm, and growth. This year’s leagues brought together 186 young athletes and 40 volunteer coaches across three programs: flag football and soccer at Ho’n A:wan Park, and a traveling soccer league that competed in Gallup, New Mexico.
Made possible with support from Nike, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the New Mexico Department of Health, the flag football league accommodated 83 children ages 7-12, the local soccer league drew 73 children ages 4-9, and the traveling soccer league served 30 older children. The local leagues also included 40 community coaches of all ages.
Throughout the season, coaches, families, and youth alike emphasized how much fun the leagues brought to their community, and how meaningful their experiences proved to be. According to end-of-season surveys, 97 percent of soccer participants and 84 percent of flag football players said they had fun, while 100 percent of soccer players and 77 percent of football players reported feeling more confident by the end of the season.
This year, ZYEP’s physical activity team also introduced new elements to strengthen teamwork and connection. Coaches took on the role of referees to stay closer to the game and to the young players, and players joined forces in the annual water challenge, tracking hydration to promote wellness and accountability.
“Instead of each player keeping their own water log, each team kept a collective log, and the coaches would fill it out,” explained Tyler Sice, physical activity coordinator. “It contributed to an even stronger team atmosphere.”
The community coaches said the season had a profound impact on them personally, and not just in skill-building. They reported new perspectives and deeper feelings of connection as well.
One coach said, “The season brought a lot of inspiration to continue to coach. The kids brought a lot of joy and cheerfulness.”
“This season, I learned to adapt to each player’s learning style,” said a second coach, while another shared, “I had a great time seeing the kids grow, and working on new drills made me grateful for the youth.”
Families also expressed their appreciation for the youth sports programs. They said they observed significant growth among their young players over the course of the season and were grateful for the positive experience.
“Great season,” one parent wrote. “Coach taught well, and my son gained self-confidence.”
“It was our first experience in the league, and it was well worth it,” another said. “Thank you to all the coaches for taking the time. It’s great for young children who don’t have many sports activities available.”
A third shared, “This season has been fun for my child. She’s not afraid of the ball anymore. Thank you to ZYEP for all you do for our children. We’re excited for the next sport!”
For 15 years, the youth project has offered youth sports with the belief that athletics can transform lives and strengthen community bonds in Zuni. Each league provides a challenging yet supportive environment where young athletes can grow in skill and confidence while learning teamwork, perseverance, and mutual respect.
Each year, ZYEP engages more than 500 youth through soccer, flag football, basketball, mini-basketball, and T-ball. Surveys consistently show that players feel more confident, more connected to their community, and more supported through their relationships with coaches and teammates, while parents report that the leagues help their children become more active, improve their health, and gain positive role models.
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 (facebook.com/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.
