The Socorro Independent School District's Volunteer Sports Program (VSP) recognized the contributions of its volunteer coaches and coordinators during an appreciation event at the SISD Aquatic Center in May 2026. This event highlighted the essential role that volunteers play in fostering a thriving sports community.
For Victor Martinez, coach for Lujan-Chavez Elementary, the celebration was an opportunity to highlight the impact coaches have on children's lives both on and off the field.
“I have a lot of memories being a kid and going out there and believing in myself, listening to the right people, the role models. And I had coaches that told me a lot of good things, and it kind of rubbed off on me. And now I get to express those things to the kids and pass it down to them,” Martinez said.
Liza Ruvalcaba, volunteer sports coordinator, said the event was designed to thank the individuals who dedicated their time to making the program possible.
"This is a thank you for all of the volunteer coaches that make it happen," Ruvalcaba said. "Without them, this would not be possible."
Ruvalcaba said the VSP's mission is to provide opportunities for all students to participate in sports, regardless of skill level. She said the program welcomes students with special needs, promotes parent involvement and helps prepare young athletes for UIL competition when they enter seventh grade.
"We have had kids that are participating at the UIL level that started with us when they were Pre-Kers," Ruvalcaba said.
Jeffrey Hernandez, coach and coordinator for John Drugan School, has volunteered with the program for about five years. He said the VSP teaches children not only the fundamentals of a sport but also valuable lessons about teamwork and a love for the game.
“So, you're teaching them the fundamentals of the sport that they're playing, whether it be soccer or track and field. And we're starting from scratch,” Hernandez said.
“I want them to love the sport, right? So, I keep it fun so they can stay engaged, and hopefully they can do it for the rest of their lives,” he added.
Hernandez said it was awesome that the program hosted an appreciation event for coaches and their families. However, he emphasized that a coach's job was never done.
“I have to make sure the kids have eaten, and they are drinking water and putting on sunscreen, but it's amazing,” Hernandez said. “It's amazing just to be here with a bunch of the coaches who are now friends and family. We're all a big happy family.”