AZTEC – Leroy Nelson, head coach of the Aztec High girls soccer team, was recently announced as a winner of the 2024 Coaches Communities Awards of Excellence by the United Soccer Coaches.
Nelson, as well as seven other national honorees for this annual award, will be recognized during the annual Advocacy Hour Reception Friday, January 10 and the annual Coaches of Women’s Soccer Breakfast on Saturday, January 11 during the 84th annual United Soccer Coaches Convention in Chicago.
According to a statement released by the USC, the Coaches Communities Awards of Excellence are presented annually by eight community groups to honor an individual, organization or other entity that has shown a commitment and outstanding work on behalf of the values of each respective group, meeting the association’s highest ideals of inclusion and diversity in the game.
Nelson, who’s been the head coach of the Tigers for four seasons, was recognized for his work on and off the pitch.
In a statement regarding Nelson’s achievement, “As a Native American business owner and coach, Nelson’s mission is to empower young athletes through soccer while instilling traditional values of hard work, academic excellence, and a strong work ethic. He strives to create opportunities both on and off the field for aspiring soccer players.
Nelson, who also owns and operates D & D Corrosion in Aztec, was recognized for providing financial support for the soccer team and the athletes.
“Nelson’s unwavering commitment to youth development has been evident in his coaching career.”
Nelson, originally from Fort Defiance, Ariz., has been a driving force in the Four Corners region since 2005. From grassroots to high school levels, his dedication and experience have been instrumental in guiding his two daughters along with numerous other athletes, to successful collegiate soccer careers.
“I’m thankful for the recognition from United Soccer Coaches. I’m also blessed to be part of the Aztec girls soccer program,” Nelson said. “As a business owner, I will continue to help my community through soccer. It’s very rewarding to see young athletes grow up to play high school soccer and have opportunities to play at the collegiate level.”
Inspired by the success of Madison Hammond (a Navajo athlete who plays for Angel City FC, where she represents the National Womens Soccer League as the first Native American player), Nelson believes that many more talented athletes will emerge from their local communities. Nelson’s dedication to his athletes, his community, and the sport of soccer has left a lasting impact on the Four Corners region and beyond.
For more information about the latest USC honorees, check out the organization’s website at unitedsoccercoaches.org.
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