ZUNI, NM (Nov. 1, 2023) — In October, the Zuni Youth Enrichment Project’s 2023 flag football and soccer seasons came to a close. The seasons were successful on more than one level; not only do recent flag football surveys reveal the league’s positive impact on Zuni youth, the soccer league finished strong at the Gallup Soccer League Tournament.
Eighty-seven young people ages 7-12 participated in flag football, which began on Aug. 21 and ended on Oct. 15. Made possible by support from Nike, New Mexico Department of Health, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the league incorporated 10 teams in two divisions.
According to Tyler Sice, ZYEP’s physical activity coordinator, impact surveys indicate that children experienced physical, mental and social health benefits as a result of participating in the 2023 flag football league. For example, 60 percent reported getting at least an hour of daily exercise, 58 percent said they drink at least eight glasses of water every day, and nearly 90 percent said they feel healthy most of the time.
“Ninety-five percent of the kids said they enjoyed the program, with 91 percent saying it was a fun experience and 81 percent saying it helped them feel more confident,” Sice said. “We also were happy to see that 70 percent feel they have positive role models to look up to, 73 percent feel they have friends who support them, and 89 percent feel more happy than sad. Many of these numbers are trending upward, year over year, and we hope to see that continue.”
For nearly 15 years, ZYEP has offered youth sports with the belief that they have the power to transform the lives of Zuni youth and bring the community even closer together. The leagues offer a challenging sports environment that also is collaborative, supportive and empowering.
ZYEP impact surveys consistently indicate that players feel more confident, more connected to the Zuni community, and more accepted by coaches and teammates in the wake of their participation in the youth sports leagues. The majority of youth participants also report that they absorb valuable lessons about living healthier, more active lifestyles while they learned to play their chosen sports.
Also this summer, ZYEP launched its 2023 soccer league for 80 young people ages 4-14, who were divided into six teams. Practices began on July 24, and the season concluded on Oct. 20.
The season ended with a bang when the U15 team finished third and the U10 team finished second in their respective divisions at the Gallup Soccer League Tournament.
“We’re so proud of our amazing youth athletes,” Sice said. “They accomplished a lot this season.”
More than 500 youth participate in ZYEP Youth Sport leagues each year. In addition to flag football and soccer, young people also are able to take advantage of a spring basketball league and new summer T-ball league.
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.
