Game Changers - Soccer Champion Jose Alfredo Garibaldi
- Feb 25
- 3 min read
In just one year with DSAL's soccer program, seven-year-old Jose Alfredo Garibaldi has become a valuable player - the kind of teammate every coach hopes to develop. What makes Jose stand out is his outstanding performance, dedication, and character - but especially the way he shows up for others.
Jose consistently demonstrates perseverance, discipline, and commitment in his athletic abilities, and excellence in the way he engages with his peers. He shows genuine camaraderie by supporting his classmates, encouraging teamwork, and making a conscious effort to ensure that no one is left behind. His positive, inclusive attitude toward everyone reflects strong leadership and sportsmanship.
"My favorite part is being able to be with the other kids helping them understand."
That instinct to support others reflects the kind of leadership that strengthens entire communities. His coaches notice it in the way he encourages teammates and celebrates others' successes. It's the foundation of good sportsmanship - and it's exactly what Jose brings to every session.
When Jose first joined the program, he was shy and unsure, but that dynamic shifted once he was surrounded by a supportive community of new teammates and friends.
"I started off being shy at first but then I met another kid here at the program named Jared and we started playing together in the class as well as compete to be a better kicker in soccer."
Friendships like this at a young age form a support network that can carry our youth into adulthood. Through soccer, Jose found his confidence, his voice, and his place in the community. And as he grew stronger, he started noticing changes beyond the field.
"I feel more confident, and I've made new friends."
But perhaps the most powerful impact shows up in the schoolyard. Jose talks about how soccer has changed the way kids interact with each other, not just at DSAL, but throughout his day.
"There are less fights with the other kids, and more kids playing soccer - not just here but also in school."
It's a valuable observation, and it speaks to something profound. When kids have positive outlets, when they're part of a team, when they learn to work together toward shared goals - conflict in the community decreases. Soccer isn't just giving Jose skills or fitness. It's teaching him and the youth around him how to build safer spaces, one game at a time.
The benefits extend into his home life too, where the discipline and respect he practices on the field have taken root in his daily interactions.
"It has changed me to be more confident and be more respectful even at home, and I've been able to pay more attention in school. Being able to make more friends here and at school - especially at lunch where I also get to play soccer with the other kids - it helps me stay motivated."
And when Jose feels good, when he's engaged and supported, the rest of his life runs smoother.
"It has helped me feel stronger and happier."
Jose's story shows what's possible when youth programs create more than just athletes - they create young leaders, friends, and community builders. His journey from a shy newcomer to someone who actively helps others succeed demonstrates exactly what DSAL strives to build: young people who don't just improve themselves, but make their entire community better in the process. Way to go Jose!
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