A New Mexico youth soccer club had the opportunity of a lifetime as they traveled to England for an international training experience. The 09′ NM Rapids S.C., based in Albuquerque, competed against top-tier youth teams in London and Manchester.
“It was an amazing experience. We’ve worked so hard for this trip,” said Nico Reyes, a striker for the team.
The club spent several days training with renowned teams like Manchester City and Wolverhampton, as well as facing off against some of the best youth programs in the world. “They hadn’t lost to a New Mexico team in a long time, so this trip was a great opportunity to challenge themselves overseas,” said Chris Hurst, head coach of the 09′ NM Rapids S.C.
The team won their first two matches but faced a tough opponent in their final game. “The last team they played had players who were already playing at professional levels, including a center forward who was with the first team,” Hurst explained. “It was a valuable learning experience.”
Despite the loss, the team was grateful for the opportunity. “The intensity and tempo of the game was just different from what we see in the U.S., and it was awesome,” Reyes added.
The trip was made possible after the team raised about $27,000 through various fundraising efforts, including a golf tournament, wine tasting event, and silent auctions.
Looking ahead, the team plans to apply what they’ve learned during the trip to their upcoming regular season. “There’s talent in New Mexico, and people need to see it,” Reyes said.
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