Meet the 3v3 youth soccer team from Albuquerque pursuing a national title

Albuquerque, NM – November 22, 2023—Bryson Hern, Sebastian Aragon, Damián Chavez, and Gabriel Garcia are passionate about soccer. Not just casual fans, these kids have a deep understanding of the game despite their young age, with each playing for their favorite soccer teams and discussing the game with maturity.

Aged under 11, the quartet recently delved into the exciting world of 3v3 soccer at the start of 2023. Despite being novices in this fast-paced version of their beloved sport, they have made large strides, culminating in their qualification for the 3v3 Live National Championships in Foley, Alabama where they will compete for a national title.

Under the guidance of Francisco Garcia, the father of one of the players and a former soccer player himself, the Westside United Lobos has seen remarkable progress. In preparation for this national level competition, the four boys have honed their skills and footwork significantly, impressing their coach with their determination and abilities.

The line-up of young players, along with their favorite soccer teams, are Bryson, 10, Liverpool FC; Sebastian, 10, Real Madrid; Damián, 9, Inter Miami and Paris-St. Germain; and Gabriel, 10, PSG. They’ve previously played for the established club Westside United SC in regular nine-on-nine soccer. Coached by Francisco Garcia, he formed the 3v3 team with the intention to expand his son’s exposure to different soccer experiences, not focusing on the competitive aspect initially. However, the children quickly acclimated to the unique format and structure of 3v3 soccer, culminating in their journey to the state and regional tournaments in preparation for the current national tournament in Alabama.

The team had to battle through numerous matches that tested their skills, including a marathon of games in one day. Despite the challenges and tough competition, they managed to secure a qualifying spot for the nationals through grit, determination, and an intense level of play. Their journey, which started from a simple tournament in Roswell to fighting at regionals in Lubbock, saw them face and overcome several well-organized and experienced teams.

Now, as they progress to the national stage, they approach the competition with confidence and a winning mindset. They possess the skills, chemistry, and teamwork crucial for success in 3v3, a unique and highly competitive form of soccer. The national championships will witness the arrival of these talented young players from Albuquerque, putting their skills to the test on a national platform.

For information on 3v3 Live, the company behind the tournaments and qualifications, visit their website for details on the format, rules, and southern coverage.

The Albuquerque region’s late arrival in 3v3 soccer has been illuminated by the Westside United Lobos as they become the first team from the area to compete on a national stage. Over the years, teams from other New Mexico cities like Artesia, Clovis, and Roswell have already left their mark on the national 3v3 soccer stage, giving testament to the growth and competitive spirit of soccer within the state.

As the WSU Lobos aim for success this weekend in Foley, Alabama for the 3v3 National Championships, they carry the pride and dedication of not just their club, but also the entire Albuquerque metro, marking their journey as a significant step in the local soccer scene’s growth and influence.

It’s fair to say that this is just the beginning of their journey and the future looks extremely promising for these young, talented kids.