Coming full circle

Years after wearing the uniforms themselves, former student-athletes are returning to summer camps across Las Cruces to teach drills, mentor younger players and help shape the programs that once shaped them. 

At Organ Mountain High School, that tradition continues this summer as former girls soccer players step back onto the field, not as competitors, but as coaches working alongside current staff during the Lady Knights’ annual camp. Concepcion Limón, head coach of the Organ Mountain girls’ soccer program, said former players have long played an important role in helping run camp activities and connect with younger athletes. 

The camp, scheduled for June 29 through July 1 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Organ Mountain High School, brings together participants from multiple age groups. Former players help organize drills, lead activities, and provide instruction while sharing experiences from their own time in the program.  

For Riley McNiece, returning to the field offers a chance to stay connected to a sport she spent four years playing at Organ Mountain before heading to college. Now entering her junior year, McNiece said one of the most rewarding parts of camp is watching younger athletes grow more comfortable and confident throughout the week. 

“I miss playing a lot, and this camp is a great way to get back out there,” McNiece said. “I always find joy and it’s always rewarding seeing younger athletes gain confidence over the week.” 

That connection often feels personal. McNiece said she sees reminders of her younger self in many of the campers who arrive nervous or unsure of themselves. 

“I think back to my freshman year and how I felt,” McNiece said. “It’s always nice to see them break out of their shell and have fun.” 

Former player Joselyn Fierro now helps coach within the girls soccer program and will also work with campers this summer. She said returning was an easy decision. 

“OMHS soccer had a big impact on me as a player, so I wanted to come back and give back to the program that helped me grow,” Fierro said. “Former players understand the program and its values, and by staying involved, they can help younger players grow and continue the traditions that made the program special.” 

That continuity helps create relationships that extend beyond a single season. Younger players see examples of where their own hard work can lead, while alumni remain connected to the community that helped them develop. 

“It helps create a family atmosphere,” Fierro said. “Younger players can see what is possible.” 

While Organ Mountain’s girls' soccer camp offers one example, summer programs throughout Las Cruces often rely on former athletes who return to assist coaches, mentor younger participants and help run activities in sports ranging from soccer and basketball to volleyball, football and tennis. 

For McNiece, those relationships are part of what keeps a program strong long after players leave high school. 

“When I was younger and going to soccer camps, I always looked up to the older players and wanted to be just like them,” McNiece said. “It also keeps the love of the program alive as well as the game.” 

As summer camps begin across the city, former athletes are once again stepping into leadership roles, helping a new generation build skills and confidence while continuing a cycle that keeps local programs connected across generations.