By NB3 Foundation

Breaking Barriers: How NB3FIT Youth Golf is opening doors for Native athletes

 

For many Native youth, sports offer more than just competition they offer connection, opportunity, and the chance to rewrite the narrative. Members of the NB3FIT Youth Golf Team, including Alyssandra Rodriguez and Zachary BlueEyes, are doing just that, showcasing what’s possible when talent meets community support and national opportunity.

Through the NB3 Foundation and the NB3FIT Golf program, these young golfers have grown not only as players but also as leaders. Zachary BlueEyes reflects on the program’s impact: “NB3FIT Golf Team has had a huge impact on me. I’ve become mentally stronger, more disciplined, and I’ve learned how to carry myself both on and off the course. It’s helped me grow not just as a golfer, but as a leader and role model in my community.”

Golf has brought BlueEyes many experiences and in a PGA Pathway to Progression event, the Amundi Evian Junior Showcase is one he will always remember.

“It challenged me to train harder and trust the process, even when it felt slow,” he said. “Being surrounded by talented players made me realize the importance of supporting each other and helping others get their names out there. It reminded me that the journey is about more than just individual success it’s also about building a community and giving back.”

Thanks to these opportunities, BlueEyes is now looking ahead to new challenges. He is headed to the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) to compete at the collegiate level, with plans to transfer to New Mexico State University (NMSU) and pursue a degree in Professional Golf Management.

“My goal is to either earn a spot on the NMSU golf team or continue building a career in the golf industry. I’m committed to making the most of every opportunity.”

Off the course, BlueEyes remains focused on his education.  “I want to study business and marketing to give myself a range of options. Education is key, and ultimately, I want to give back to the communities that raised and supported me.”

When asked what advice he’d give to other Native youth, BlueEyes said, “Stay focused on your journey. Golf can be uncomfortable sometimes, but that’s where growth happens,” he said. “Don’t waste time comparing yourself to others or worrying about what other people are shooting. Stay focused on your progress, your grind, and what you’re capable of achieving. Most importantly, be proud of where you come from. Representing your Native community through golf is powerful.”

Their journeys speak to a larger movement one where Native and minority athletes are reshaping the face of golf.

“The growing visibility of Native and minority players in golf is a powerful reminder that we can make an impact on any field, regardless of the barriers we may face. As more of us step onto the course and showcase our skills, we’re breaking down stereotypes and showing the world that we belong,” BlueEyes emphasized.

As partnerships like the one between the NB3 Foundation and the PGA continue to grow, so do the opportunities for Native youth. The stories of Zachary and Alyssandra are just a few of many, but they send a powerful message to our youth and communities.

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By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT Recap: Golf, track, basketball and soccer

As the spring season comes to a close, NB3FIT programs have plenty to celebrate. From record participation numbers to standout individual achievements, our youth athletes continue to shine.

Golf: A Record-Breaking Spring
The NB3FIT Golf program wrapped up its spring season with an impressive turnout, welcoming 42 young golfers – one of the largest groups we’ve ever had. Throughout the season, participants honed their skills, built confidence, and formed lasting connections on the course. As we look ahead to the summer program at the Santa Ana Golf Club, we’re excited to keep the momentum going and are actively seeking volunteer coaches to support our growing community. Visit www.nb3foundation.org/nb3ft for more information on this summer’s golf program.

Track: A Strong Start to the Season
NB3FIT’s Track program kicked off in style with its first meet at the Albuquerque Athletics Track Meet, held at Del Norte High School. Youth athletes took on a range of events, including javelin, long jump, relays, and various track races. It was an exciting start, with many youth placing between 5th and 10th in their heats. Seeing their determination and enthusiasm on the field sets a promising tone for the season, which will continue through July. We’re looking forward to seeing how they develop their skills and achieve personal bests in the weeks to come.

Race results:
https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/560223/results

Girls Basketball: Resilience and Recognition
Our Girls Basketball program continues to build both skill and perseverance. While working towards consistent victories, the team remains committed, showing unwavering dedication to growth. That hard work is paying off, as three of our athletes – Elsie Chavez, Anani Latoma, and Sage Yepa – were selected to play in an all-star game. Their determination and commitment to the sport are setting a powerful example for their peers and younger athletes.

NB3FIT’s spring season has been a testament to the dedication of our youth athletes and the supportive community around them. As we transition into summer, we remain committed to fostering their growth, both on and off the field. Stay connected with us for updates on upcoming programs, events, and ways to get involved.

Soccer: A Season of Growth
Spring soccer wrapped up its 8-week program, and it was an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The youth made great strides in learning the skills and fundamentals of the game, and we’re especially grateful to our volunteer coaches who paved the way for these young athletes. A special shoutout to the parents for consistently showing up and cheering on the youth, especially during the kids’ favorite family and community  tunnel at the end of each match! We can’t wait for next season.

NB3FIT’s spring season was all about growth, hard work, and community support! Our youth athletes showed up and gave it their all, and we couldn’t be prouder. As we gear up for summer, we’re excited to keep building skills and connections. Stay tuned for updates on programs, events, and ways to get involved!

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By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT Soccer Mid-Season Update: Community, Coaches and Connection

We’re halfway through another incredible NB3FIT Soccer season, and we’re proud to report 113 youth registered across multiple sites: learning, growing and having fun on and off the field!

This season, we’re supported by an amazing team of 10 volunteer coaches, some returning and some new to NB3FIT:

  • Jared Lesansee – North Domingo Baca Park (Returning)

  • Aleia Aguilar – Santo Domingo School (New)

  • Shantael Booqua – Native American Community Academy (Returning)

  • Tymera Booqua – Native American Community Academy (Returning)

  • Lloyd Padilla – Bernalillo High School (New)

  • Alex Quiver – Pueblo of Laguna (Returning)

  • Adelbert Quiver – North Domingo Baca Park (Returning)

  • Brenda Herrera – Santo Domingo School (New)

  • Andrew Garcia – Santo Domingo & North Domingo Baca (New)

  • Carley Tafoya – Dulce (New)

All coaches have completed required trainings, including U.S. Center for SafeSport, U.S. Soccer Grassroots Coaching, and NB3 Foundation’s in-person Youth Soccer Coach Training. These volunteers generously give their time to create safe, fun, and empowering environments for our youth — and we are truly grateful for each of them!

Special Shoutouts

We want to highlight a few coaches who have gone above and beyond by organizing practices and forming teams in their own communities and schools:

  • Shantael and Tymera Booqua – Native American Community Academy

  • Alex Quiver – Pueblo of Laguna

  • Carley Tafoya – Dulce, NM

Your dedication is bringing soccer directly to Native youth in meaningful and lasting ways. Thank you for your commitment!

What’s up with the new format?

This season introduced a new academy-style layout — and parents are loving it! This format ensures every child plays multiple games every Saturday, even if some teammates can’t make it. It also allows youth to meet peers from other communities, build friendships and create lasting memories.

Thank You to Our Partners

Big thanks to Bernalillo High School for allowing us to use their fields for games and to Santo Domingo School for providing practice space. Your support makes it all possible.

As we look ahead to the rest of the season, we’re excited to keep seeing these players grow, connect and thrive through the game!

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By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT Girls Basketball Teams: Competing, Growing and Uplifting Each Other

We are proud to share an exciting update from our NB3FIT Girls Basketball program. What started with tryouts for an 8th grade team has grown into a dynamic  collaboration with two additional Native-led teams — creating space for young female athletes to compete, grow and thrive both on and off the court.

Building the Teams

We kicked off the season by forming an NB3FIT 8th grade girls team, solidifying a strong 10-player roster. Shortly after, we expanded our program by partnering with two Native-led teams:

  • 505 Thunder (JV/Varsity) – Coached by Darin Begay

  • NB3F-Starz (6th grade) – Coached by Chris Sandoval and Reyes Roberts

Each team incorporates NB3 Foundation’s teachings and embraces our four core areas during practices. The players represent a wide range of communities including Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and the Pueblos of Sandia, San Felipe, Jemez, Laguna, Isleta, San Juan, Tesuque, Acoma, and Taos. We’re also proud to have representation from the Navajo Nation, Yu’Pik, Tohono O’odham, Wailacki, Akimel O’odham, and Lakota Nations.

More Than Basketball: Teaching Life Skills

Basketball practice is more than drills and plays — it’s about shaping leaders and teammates. So far, our teachings have included:

  • Positive self-talk and visualization

  • Teamwork and problem-solving

  • Fueling our bodies with fruits, veggies, and water

  • Learning how to be a good teammate and community member

Tournament Play and Big Wins

All three teams made their tournament debut at the 10th Annual Coronado Classic (April 3–6), competing against teams from Albuquerque, Bernalillo, and Santa Fe. The results:

 NB3F-Starz (6th grade) – Champions
505 Thunder Varsity – Second Place
Team NB3F Black – Showed heart and effort in their first bracket play game

Most recently, the Varsity team traveled to Mescalero, NM to play in the Glenn Yellowcloud Memorial Tournament. They faced teams from Magdalena, Tularosa, Ruidoso, and Mescalero, and finished as runners-up, with Alanna Barton named to the All-Tournament Team. Meanwhile, the 6th and 8th grade teams held it down locally in the East/West Tournament, playing hard and continuing to learn and grow.

Player Highlight: Penny Helgeland’s Redemption Moment

The 6th grade team made it to the championship game, the score was tied with a few seconds left in regular time. Penny Helgeland had the ball, attempting a shot. She was fouled; regular time ended. She went to the line to shoot her two free throws. If she made one, they would win the game. She missed both and  she was visibly upset. As she walked to her team, they all stood up clapped for her and hyped her up for overtime. Later, with the last 8 sec of overtime, the Starz were up and needed to inbound the ball in the back court, under the other team’s basket. If the other team stole the ball, they had a chance to win the game.  The ball was passed to Penny . She grabbed the ball, ripped through defense confidently and took care of the ball to secure their win. Throughout that whole game the team picked each other up and won the championship game.

Looking Ahead

This summer, our teams will continue to compete in local and select out-of-state tournaments. Though the partnerships are still new, it’s been powerful to see how the teachings are being put into action — through resilience, teamwork, and leadership.

The NB3 Foundation is proud to support these incredible athletes and looks forward to what’s next. Together, we’re building more than basketball teams — we’re nurturing future leaders.

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