The Mattapan Patriots Youth Football and Cheer Program has raised well over $20,000 in an effort to support their journey to nationals. The football team is slated to represent New England for the second time in December at America’s Youth Football Nationals, which will be held in Naples, Florida.
As for the cheer team, they will compete at the AYC National Championships in Kissimmee, Florida. Mattapan Patriots President Mick Brunache said, as reported by 7News,
"It means a lot to give kids a different direction. It also means a lot to give them a vision.”
Ryla Gill, a 15-year-old member of the team, also shared her excitement:
"When they called our name it was just fantastic.”
Mattapan Patriots President Mick Brunache says he's not giving up on getting his teams to the nationals this December
Per Boston 25 News, Brunache went on:
"It’s been an up-and-down battle all season long. Some teams just canceled on us without any reason. We had one or two teams cancel saying they weren’t comfortable coming to Mattapan.”
At the time of writing, the fundraiser has accumulated about $21,070 in funds. With over 170 donations from patrons, the team is looking at a goal of $60,000. Per the official GoFundMe page, the initiative is being organized by the Panthers Legends Academic Youth, a nonprofit organization
All funds raised will go towards flight tickets, hotels, meals, activities, and commutes. As for "why this year means so much," here's what it says:
"The Mattapan Patriots 14U football team has faced a challenging season, with an unusual number of forfeited games that left our players with fewer opportunities to compete. Despite these setbacks, they stayed committed, and for many of our 14U players, this will be their final season in youth sports. Attending nationals will be a remarkable way to honor their dedication and resilience, creating an unforgettable sendoff as they close this chapter."
It goes on to reveal that the Mattapan Patriots cheer teams are the first to nab a spot in the nationals. They will go on to compete in the dance category at the AYC National Championships in Kissimmee from December 3 to 8. As for the football team, they will participate in the AYF National Tournament in Naples from December 7 to 15.
Per 7News, Brunache continued:
"The reason why it’s been so monumental for us is because a lot of teams didn’t want to play us."
He revealed that Hingham, North Attleboro, Weymouth, and Walpole all canceled the scheduled games against the Mattapan Patriots without giving a clear explanation as to why. However, he told Boston 25 News on Wednesday that he is determined to fight for his team:
"I’m not going to leave no kid behind. I’m going to keep fighting and fundraising as hard as I can to get every child down there. We are here to build. We are here to serve our community. We’re here to keep our kids safe and off the streets, and we’re here to give these kids a platform.”
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Under Brunache's guidance, the U16 and U12 cheerleading team will also be making their way to nationals in Orlando this December.
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