David Yerby

 También puedes leer este artículo en español, Q + A con José “Don Pepe” Vicente.

José “Don Pepe” Vicente
President of the soccer league MexArk at Otter Creek City Park in Little Rock

What has motivated you to start organizing soccer matches in Central Arkansas?

In 1998, the need for a more organized soccer program motivated me to gather more players who liked the sport and start my own group to practice and compete in Central Arkansas. Our mainly Hispanic community began to grow, and so did those interested in playing this beautiful sport of soccer, which is why more teams were created to be a part of our first formal Latino soccer league in Central Arkansas.

What has it been like organizing this sport in Central Arkansas?

It was not easy because, as Latinos, we have our Hispanic temperament, and many times we do not accept the rules that are imposed on us. But seeing that it was for the benefit of a better-organized league, little by little, the internal regulations that we organize ourselves with have been accepted.

You are a soccer pioneer in Central Arkansas. What does this mean to you? What has kept you encouraged and optimistic to continue contributing your experience in this sport?

I have always liked this sport, and I do it with passion. Another of the objectives of this work is family unity and spending time outdoors. It is a good influence on the children and youth of these families.

How many teams did your MexArk league have in the beginning?

I started with five teams. Later, I met Rigoberto Chávez, and together, we formed the soccer league MexArk which refers to the words Mexico and Arkansas. Currently, the league is also made up of players from Central America and even from other cultures, such as the current Kenyan team. In 2005, our MexArk soccer league began playing at Otter Creek Park with 18 teams.

After a few years, El Profe joined our league and started the children's soccer league, which currently has approximately 400 children between the ages of five and 15.

Currently, our men's league has 38 teams, 12 from the first division and 26 from the second division. In addition, on Mondays, we have matches for veteran players over 35 years of age. There are already 16 teams in this category.

Describe your vision for soccer in the state of Arkansas. What opportunities or gaps exist in this sport locally and in the state?

I am very pleased that the sport of soccer is growing in Arkansas. We have had women's teams for nine years in our league. At the beginning, it was not easy for them, but we are very happy that our five women's teams have grown in [their] game and technique and are playing very well and taking it very seriously. Our women's team is already out to compete in other places and leagues.

What has your experience been like over the years working with the Latino community of Central Arkansas?

I am very happy to do it because it brings families together. In this country, we all work and in our daily routine most of the time we don't even know our neighbor. Practicing a sport brings together friendship and friends. There is coexistence and fun.

Would you change anything from what you have done so far?

I honestly don't think so… I am very grateful. Thanks to sports, I have met many beautiful people in our community – leaders and authorities who have supported us in this sport. I wouldn't change anything I've experienced so far.

What advice would you give to those who practice soccer or any other sport in order to grow faster?

Most of the players who are members of our league are fathers and mothers of families, hard-working people. Ninety percent of the players in our league have one job or even two, and I admire them for continuing to play the game. I recommend that younger athletes take advantage of their youth by practicing physical activity, which they can even take advantage of to get a scholarship and continue studying, whether in… soccer or any other sport.