Native Indigenous Soccer Cup kicks off

SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) - SANTA FE, N.M.-

The indigenous soccer cup kicked off July 20th and runs to the 24th. There are over 150 native youths not only from New Mexico, but from around the nation as well.  "In the afternoons we have different facilitators come in and work with our youth promoting leadership, community service, college preparation and it's just a wonderful event." says executive director of Southwest Youth Services, JoAnn Melchor.
 

The student athletes compete in a soccer tournament in the mornings, and learn key leadership skills during workshops in the afternoon. The workshops are geared toward building life skills for future success in life and in college. For student-athlete Nicholas Filepe, participating in the cup has been a wonderful experience.