ZUNI, N.M. (Aug. 19, 2026) — This summer, the Zuni Youth Enrichment Project welcomed another group of the community’s youngest athletes to Ho’n A:wan Park for its 4th Annual T-Ball League. Over three weeks, 18 children ages 4 and 5 learned the fundamentals of the game while building confidence and making memories with teammates, coaches and supportive family members.
Made possible with support from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the New Mexico Department of Health’s Healthy Kids Healthy Communities program, the league ran from July 8 through July 31. Community coaches guided players through weekly practices and Friday morning games designed specifically for children taking their first steps into organized sports.
According to Tyler Sice, ZYEP’s physical activity coordinator, the league is about much more than teaching children how to throw, catch and hit a baseball.
“Although we had a smaller group of players this year, it was a really fun season,” he said. “The coaches, families and players all enjoyed themselves, and everyone worked together to create a positive experience for our young players.”
Coach Lelie Lementino agreed, noting that the season was filled with growth and excitement.
“We have learned so much, and we had a lot of fun along the way,” she said. “Every step brought new skills and excitement, making it a truly unforgettable experience.”
Families saw that growth as well. A parent noted in a post-league survey that T-ball gave their child a valuable opportunity to try something new.
“It was a great season, and my daughter was very happy to be a part of it,” the parent wrote. “She said that she wished it was a little longer, but all in all, it got her out of her shell and participating in sports. Thank you for that.”
The children especially enjoyed their themed game days. Each Friday, ZYEP chose a different theme and encouraged the players to wear costumes to Ho’n A:wan Park.
“We all loved seeing the kids play ball in Hawaiian-style shirts or dressed up as Disney characters,” said Tahlia Natachu-Eriacho, ZYEP’s executive director. “At this age, we want their first experiences with sports to be positive ones, so they feel comfortable, have fun and want to keep participating.”
One of the year’s highlights came on the final day of the season, when parents joined their children on the turf field for a friendly Parents vs. Players game. Afterward, everyone gathered for a community cookout to celebrate another successful summer season.
“The Parents vs. Players game was a huge hit,” Sice said. “It was a fun way to wrap up the season.”
The community coaches had their own learning experiences throughout the season. For several of them, this summer marked their first time coaching youth sports.
“It was an awesome season,” said coach Raymond Homer. “I was hoping to teach them about T-ball, but they taught me more. I am proud of every single one of them.”
Coach Caleigh Johnson also described the season as rewarding.
“This was my first time coaching too, so I didn’t know what to expect,” she said. “I loved every moment of it, teaching these kids a bit of what I know. I also loved practice, because during the last five minutes, we would just play free tag.”
As ZYEP looks ahead to next year, staff members are already planning additional community outreach and pop-up events. Earlier this summer, the youth project held its first pop-up baseball camp in partnership with the Zuni Public School District, which engaged 37 youth over three days.
Through its Youth Sport initiative, ZYEP serves more than 500 youth annually through its basketball, soccer, flag football and T-ball leagues. While each league focuses on physical activity and skill development, the programs also create spaces where young people can build confidence, develop friendships, connect with mentors and role models, and strengthen the sense of community that defines the Pueblo of Zuni.
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.
