A Community United by the Beautiful Game
Moises Enriquez, a 54‑year‑old immigrant from Guerrero, Mexico, has been the backbone of adult soccer in Pasco since 2018. Originally from a small town near the U.S. border, Enriquez arrived in Washington in 2001 and quickly turned his love for the sport into a neighborhood institution, rallying players, securing fields, and keeping the weekly matches alive.
The surge in soccer’s popularity here is not a fleeting trend. Local schools have embraced the sport, giving children early exposure that feeds into adult leagues. La Liga 1020, founded in 2012, now fields teams drawn from across Latin America, attracting talent from nearby cities and creating a melting pot of languages, cultures, and playing styles.
German Abarca, a 37‑year‑old who has watched the league evolve for over a decade, notes that the number of teams has doubled since the league’s early days, growing to 36 sides that compete in a fiercely contested division championship. The growth reflects both the influx of new migrants and the increasing willingness of American‑born players to join the competition.
Victor, a 35‑year‑old Venezuelan who found the league through a coworker, has been playing for about a year. His participation illustrates how word‑of‑mouth and workplace connections can turn a casual pastime into a vital social outlet for newcomers seeking familiarity in a foreign land.
Harold, a 39‑year‑old Colombian migrant, describes soccer as a source of community and solace amid the uncertainties of immigration enforcement. He admits that the specter of ICE detention lingers in his mind, yet the pitch offers a rare space where he can focus on the game rather than the future.
The upcoming FIFA World Cup has amplified the excitement, but the passion that fuels Pasco’s leagues predates any global tournament. For many, the sport is a universal language that transcends borders, allowing players like Harold to momentarily set aside worries about detention and simply enjoy the match.
Beyond the field, local institutions such as Gesa Credit Union have stepped in to support the league, providing financial backing that helps cover equipment and field costs. This partnership underscores how regional businesses are investing in a sport that brings together diverse communities.
Looking Ahead
As the league continues to expand, organizers hope to formalize youth development programs and secure more sponsors, ensuring that the next generation can inherit the same sense of belonging that has defined Pasco’s soccer culture for years.