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Los Lunas
It’s back. After an absence of about five years, the American Youth Soccer Organization, commonly called AYSO, is returning to Valencia County in both Los Lunas and Belen.
When Samantha Garza moved from Socorro to Los Lunas late last year, she noticed limited soccer options for young people.
“It was kind of disheartening because we want everything good for our children,” Garza said.
That void sent Garza, now the commissioner for AYSO Region 515, into action. First she received the thumbs up from the village of Los Lunas and then secured contracts for use of the fields at the Los Lunas Sports Complex.
“The village has been amazing here,” with its support, according to Garza.
Final approval from the city of Belen to use Eagle Park came through on Monday, Aug. 18, when the city council unanimously approved AYSO’s proposal. Garza said she is thankful for the efforts of both Los Lunas and Belen officials.
Once the effort gained momentum, Garza started talking to “people who want to volunteer, to bring the joy of soccer to the community.”
One of those Garza talked to was Kimberly Marshall, of Los Lunas, who was coaching her daughter at a local park.
“I love soccer. I grew up playing it,” said Marshall, who knew she wanted to help, but wasn’t sure of which role.
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After doing some research about AYSO, Marshall agreed to be a board member, and is joined by Senaida Jones and Domonic Villella.
“I really like everything they stand for …keeping it kid friendly, just a good environment where it’s just about having fun and learning,” Marshall believes.
For the fall season, AYSO Valencia Region 515 will be open to boys and girls from 4 years old through seventh grade. In the spring, 3 year old players will be added.
The AYSO EPIC Program for children with disabilities is also planned.
Registration is underway at www.ayso515.org through Aug. 22. Registration will also be available 5-7 p.m., Aug. 21-22, at the Belen Community Center.
Opening day is September 27 at the Los Lunas Sports Complex and Eagle Park in Belen. The season concludes Nov. 1.
For more information call 505-750-7040, email Sgarza.ayso@gmail.com or visit AYSO Valencia County on Facebook and Instagram.
Garza says that coaches and volunteers are still needed to help children “build a great foundation for soccer. With the building, they will love soccer and it will follow them through adulthood.”
