Yes we had gone to a facility that had been housing unaccompanied, mostly Latino youth, brought out a National team player, high level certified coaches and others to also work with them at a facility that has taken in the less fortunate youth in my hometown of Syosset for well over a century. Yes we have donated and helped others donate to the same facility, dressed up as Santa Sean and given them each soccer balls etc. But I do think we were bested by one of the best players of his generation, David Villa, as he and his DV7 Soccer Program and Council Member Francisco Moya with the Hispanic Federation have kicked off the 3rd year of the Immigrant Youth Soccer Program. This gratis soccer effort for NYC Latino & Immigrant Youth helps them keep up their skill work at home.
This population of young immigrants, Latino youth and unaccompanied minors will have another chance to hone their skills, keeping them on point for the fall and beyond as FIFA World Cup Champion and Queensboro FC Co-Founder David Villa, Moya and the Federation begin the 3rd session of this program.
Begun in 2019 as a live initiative, it has now had to go virtual due to the Corona Virus Crisis. This afforded a large exposure and an adjustment to a 2-season duration, as Spring 2021 session is n in the works.
Back by a most generous grant and backing from the Office of NYC Council Member, Fancisco Moya it is at no cost to all NYC youth ages 5-17.
Maya stated "Futbol is the universal language that unites us all and we need programs like this soccer camp to combat the negative effects of COVID-19 in our community. All the while learning from the best of the best in soccer, like World Cup Champ David Villa. I am grateful to David and the DV7 Academy for their commitment.
This go 'round you my find the offering on OWQL, an app, this has members go mobile and get the content, not while tethered to the internet. This tremendous Academy set up a 7-week long lesson plan with interactive videos to raise technical skills, fitness and added small tests on soccer, soccer players and World Cup factoids. Of course it is bi-lingual English y Espanol.
Further DV7 is determined to strengthen the community via David's ownership in Queensboro FC, they begin play in 2022. A Co-Founder of this new USL pro team, he will keep up his profile in the city, back programs to further the Hispanic youth and families and aid in the rebuild as the city establishes a new normal when COVID passes (not soon enough).
David added " I want to continue providing the youth with my knowledge, experience and inspiration-so that they can train their minds and bodies to always stay healthy and positive, One camp can make a lifelong difference for a child."
Hispanic Federation through their work with immigration have been a proud partner of this since the opening whistle. The are keying this year on building their connections with current foster care agencies, while reaching out to Queens based immigration groups, schools and other groups to help the program to keep going in the lesser served unaccompanied minors, immigrant youth & other young ones in marginalized areas. 60 or so have already joined with space for up to 200 more.
Frankie Miranda, Prez. Hispanic Federation informed "This soccer program was created 2 years ago to provide youth who have been through hardship with a healthy outlet, entertainment and the opportunity to simply enjoy being a kid. I am truly grateful to all the partners who helped make this happen once again."