MAMMOTH HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER TEAM

Soccer is an extraordinary sport that nurtures both physical and mental well-being. Physically, it offers a full-body workout that strengthens the cardiovascular system, builds muscle, improves coordination, and supports healthy weight management. Mentally, it fosters teamwork, confidence, and focus. Recognizing these comprehensive benefits, we were eager to review and support the grant application submitted by the Mammoth High School Soccer Coach.

About the coach and his inspiration to take on the role of Mammoth High School Soccer Coach:

“My name is Josh Brown, I moved to Mammoth Lakes in the fall of 2023 after getting a job for Mammoth Unified School District as the School Psychologist/ Special Education Coordinator. I grew up in San Diego County where I played recreational, club, and high school soccer. After getting married and having two sons I started to coach when they were 3 and 4 years old. At the start of the 2025-2026 school year, the job for Mammoth High School head soccer coach was posted. As the season approached and no one had applied for the job, it seemed that if I did not step up and take the job we would not have a team, and that was unacceptable.”

The Youth Community this project serves:

The Mammoth High School Boys Soccer Team comprises around 20 student-athletes from grades 9 through 12 each academic year. While most players reside in Mammoth Lakes, California, some attend Mammoth High School via interdistrict transfers from neighboring communities like June Lake, Lee Vining, and Bishop.

During the 2025–2026 season, the roster included five freshmen, one sophomore, six juniors, and six seniors, ranging in age from 14 to 18. A majority of the players identify as Hispanic/Latino and were raised in Mammoth Lakes, with many coming from working-class families whose parents work in the local service industry.

What the program provided to our community youth:

The grant funded new uniforms and puffer jackets for the 2025–2026 season and the following two seasons. Throughout the season, the team competed in two games per week. Players also wore their puffer jackets around campus, building school spirit and team pride.

“Most student-athletes met all school and CIF regulations. For those who struggled, targeted support was provided to help them maintain their academic eligibility and meet behavioral expectations. Overall, the team took great pride in their new gear, which provided a cohesive, professional appearance both on and off the field,” Coach Brown explained.

The positive impact that this program has on our youth:

The new uniforms and jackets kept the team warm during winter games while restoring a sense of pride on the field. After seasons of cold, muddy matches that left the old gear noticeably worn out, this fresh look brought a much-needed upgrade. Because the players actively designed the logo and jackets, they took the field with genuine confidence and ownership. One of the players is quoted as saying, “These look tough!”

As Coach Brown shared, “Many of the students that play soccer are not involved in any other school sports or activities. This team gives the boys an opportunity to feel connected to their school and community, keeps them in shape, and gives them an opportunity to build friendships and confidence. The expectations for good behavior and grades also keep the students working hard to pass classes and graduate with a diploma”.

Coach Brown emphasized, “Thank you donors for your support! The MHS soccer program is deeply grateful for the support provided to our student-athletes. For many of our players, soccer is their sole athletic outlet. Thank you to MMCF for making high school sports accessible to them! The soccer program will continue to need additional support as playing soccer in the winter is a serious challenge. Thank you again!”