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‘You’re My GOAT’: Spokane Velocity Crashes Refugee Soccer Camp
Soccer Stars Inspire Refugee and Immigrant Kids at Spokane Summer Camp
A Special Week of Soccer and Belonging
Imagine a sunny park filled with the sound of laughter, the thump of soccer balls, and kids speaking languages from all over the world. That was the scene at Franklin Park in Spokane, where nearly 200 young players gathered for a free, weeklong soccer camp.
This wasn’t just any sports camp. It was a partnership between two organizations that care deeply about helping newcomers feel at home:
- Thrive International – Helps refugee families resettle and build new lives
- 90+ Project – Uses soccer to teach life skills like leadership and confidence
Important Point: The camp welcomes kids from kindergarten through 12th grade, representing more than a dozen countries. Many participants have lived in Thrive’s shelters in Spokane and Tacoma.
When Professional Players Show Up
The biggest surprise came on Thursday when five players from Spokane Velocity (the city’s professional soccer team) visited the camp.
Coach Aaron Lewis asked the kids: "How many of you weren’t born in the United States?"
Dozens of hands shot up. Then something amazing happened – four out of the five Velocity players raised their hands too.
Meet the Role Models
Moses Mensah – Left Back from Ghana
Nine-year-old Mel Akon ran up to Mensah during autograph time and said:
"You’re my GOAT. One day I’m gonna look like you and be like you."
Mensah smiled and replied: "I want to see that."
Mensah’s advice to the kids: "Listen to your coaches a lot because they have more experience than you guys."
Joe Gallardo – Forward
Teodoro Tchetchembe (15) and Jomar TC (16) challenged Gallardo to a juggling contest. Jomar tied the pro with 35 hits! (He was wearing a Lamine Yamal Barcelona jersey for good luck.)
Gallardo’s advice: "If you really want to get there, if you push yourself, just work hard everyday… I think it’s achievable."
More Than Just Kicking a Ball
Russ Davis, Executive Director of 90+ Project, explains the real goal:
"We teach character, leadership, mental wellness, and we do those things through the sport of soccer… using it really as a vehicle for transformation. And then we seek to provide access to the game, so creating opportunities for kids."
How They Celebrate Good Character
Throughout the week, coaches give shout-outs to players who show:
- Virtue
- Respect
- Responsibility
Mel Akon got the first shout-out for showing up every single morning and afternoon to get maximum soccer time. His reward? A Velocity poster signed by the pros.
Mark Finney, Executive Director of Thrive International, puts it perfectly:
"Our vision is we want to see people not just survive when they come to a new country, we want to help them thrive."
A Week to Remember
Emmanuel Kalumuna (11) called the week "amazing" and proudly showed off his soccer ball signed by all five Velocity players.
Why This Matters: The Big Picture
| What Happens at Camp | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Kids play soccer together | Builds friendships across cultures |
| Pro players share their stories | Shows success is possible |
| Coaches teach life skills | Prepares kids for challenges |
| Free access for all | Removes financial barriers |
| Celebration of character | Reinforces positive values |
Summary
This annual soccer camp does something powerful: it turns a sport into a bridge. For refugee and immigrant kids adjusting to a new country, the camp offers:
- Community – Friends who understand their journey
- Role models – Pros who once stood in their shoes
- Skills – Both soccer and life lessons
- Joy – Pure, simple fun in a safe space
As Moses Mensah said about his connection to the kids: "I felt a special sort of connection… who had arrived in Spokane from all over the world and have had to learn the culture just like he did."
FAQ
Who can attend this soccer camp?
A: The camp is free and open to kids from kindergarten through 12th grade, with a focus on children from refugee and immigrant families. Many participants have stayed in Thrive International’s shelters.
What organizations run the camp?
A: It’s a partnership between Thrive International (refugee resettlement) and 90+ Project (sports-based youth development).
Do the kids need soccer experience?
A: No! The camp welcomes all skill levels. It’s about participation, learning, and fun – not just talent.
Why do professional players visit?
A: Velocity players (many of whom are immigrants themselves) serve as living proof that dreams are achievable. They share advice, sign autographs, and connect personally with the kids.
How does soccer teach life skills?
A: Coaches use the game as a "vehicle for transformation" – teaching leadership when kids captain teams, responsibility when they show up consistently, and mental wellness through physical activity and community support.
Want to support programs like this? Look for Thrive International and 90+ Project in Spokane to learn about volunteering or donating!
