ask Rubio Gomez, manager of the Cosmic Wolves, CSC’s homegrown soccer club. The program started in 2013; the idea was to launch a community league in the heart of Columbia Heights that would reduce violence by giving young people new opportunities for recreation. “I got a few friends together to form a team, and we played in the league. Eventually, I got to know Ms. Penny (CSC Executive Director Penelope Griffith), and I asked her to support us with things like uniforms and Gatorade, which she did,” Gomez recalled. “After two or three years, she saw how great we were doing, how hard we trained, how much we respected each other, and how effectively we managed to avoid whatever was happening around us off the field, and she said, ‘Let’s come to the table and create something together.’ From that, the Cosmic Wolves program was born.” The program consists of three core elements: a high school curriculum, twice-weekly practice sessions and weekend games. “In the class, we help kids learn about leadership, and anger management and how to stay away from alcohol and drugs,” Gomez said. “Everything is free—the training, the equipment, membership in the league; all you have to do is commit to doing your best and taking it seriously.” This past year, Andy Amaya did just that, showing up and staying dedicated to the program. Now a college student in his first year at George Washington University, Amaya credits the Cosmic Wolves with advancing his development. “When I was a senior in high school, during COVID, there was nothing to do but stay home, and it was easy to get anxious and depressed,” he said. “Soccer gave me something to do, and a way to meet new people. It also gave me a place where I knew I could just relax and have fun.” Participation in the Cosmic Wolves gave Amaya the space to be a kid—and also the structure to move down a productive path for his future. “I’ve loved playing with the Cosmic Wolves,” Amaya said. “Thank you, CSC!” l
Above (L to R) Andy Amaya of the Cosmic Wolves playing against the International Cultural Athletic Exchange Foundation (INCAEF).
17 Youth Receiving Mentorship
COSMIC WOLVES SOCCER TEAM
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