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4H Blog

Elias Espinosa
Extension Agent – Cooperative Extension Program
4-H Youth Development
Email: efespinosa@pvamu.edu

The Soccer Team Representing Texas, Obtains 2nd Place in the 1st Ever 4-H National Council Soccer Cup for U-19 Boys

March 24, 2025

The soccer team from Dallas County that represented the state of Texas obtained 2nd place at the 1st ever 4-H national cup after losing 0-1 against team A from the District of Columbia.  This is a remarkable accomplishment for a group of kids 15 to 19 years despite being defeated as this was not only the first experience for everyone to play together as a team, but more importantly, because they played the semi-final and final matches without resting or eating in between, which made them put in an extraordinary effort.   

Nebraska and Texas Team Together After the Semifinal Match

“What I admired from this amazing group of kids from Texas is that even though they are new to 4-H, they represented themselves with respect, dignity, courage and humility, and reflected the values of 4-H and positive youth development throughout the whole event. It was a pleasure to getting to know each of them during this great annual event.” Elias Espinosa, Prairie View Extension 4-H Youth Development agent, stated.   

At the end of the match, the players showed signs of physical and emotional pain, which was visible by the tears running through their faces; however, this is one of the stories in which the team learned more from losing than winning as they seemed to truly become a FAMILIA!

“It was truly inspiring to witness the outstanding sportsmanship, hard work, and dedication of the 16 remarkable young men at the Ignite 4-H Soccer Cup. The Dallas County 4-H Youth Development PVAMU team delivered an exceptional performance on the field, and I felt an immense sense of pride as their character and talents shone brightly.” Xiomara Diaz-Vargas, Dallas County Extension Director, stated.

“Beyond their participation in the extraordinary first National 4-H Soccer Cup, the entire Dallas County Soccer team, each being first-generation 4-H members, demonstrated incredible resilience. They earned the respect and admiration of their peers and new friends. I can't wait to see how their careers in 4-H continue to develop. This truly embodies the essence of positive youth development and the power of a community of leaders who will support them on their journey.” Diaz-Vargas, concluded.

The Texas 4-H team played a total of 4 matches in two days, with three of them being played on Friday, March 14th.  

Team 1

Team 2

Team 3

 

Team 4

Team 5

 

Full Results

  • Thursday, March 13th / Texas vs District of Columbia Team B / 4-1
  • Friday, March 14th / Texas vs Virginia / 8-0
  • Friday, March 14th / Texas vs Nebraska (semi-final) / 2-0
  • Friday, March 14th / Texas vs District of Columbia Team A (final) / 0-1

About Ignite by 4-H

Join us from across the U.S. in Washington, D.C. for Ignite by 4-H! The four-day interactive summit helps teens find their spark through inspiring speakers, hands-on workshops, off-site experiences, career exploration and connecting with peers.

Ignite is a step forward in the journey of becoming beyond ready. At Ignite, teens collaborate, create and cultivate a passion for expanding their minds and their world—becoming resilient and READY for everything life has to offer. The possibilities are endless at Ignite by 4-H.

About Dallas County 4-H

Dallas County 4-H, supported by the Texas A&M System, including Texas A&M University and Prairie View A&M University, is dedicated to partnering with the community. We tailor our programs to meet local needs and aspirations, ensuring impactful and relevant experiences for all involved under four concentrated areas: STEM, Civic Engagement, Healthy Living, and Agriculture &Natural Resources. These programs are available for youth throughout the Metroplex.

About Soccer for Success by Dallas County 4-H

Soccer for Success is a program that helps children improve their fitness, nutrition, and positive youth development through soccer. The program combines physical activity, nutrition education, and mentorship to help children develop healthy habits and life skills.

To join Soccer for Success by 4-H, please contact the Prairie View 4-H Youth Development agent Elias Espinosa at (214) 904-3065 or email him at efespinosa@pvamu.edu.