We received this letter recently, asking us to get the word out about this amazing young man from Lafayette. Miguel Andrade is an 11-year-old 6th-grader at LJ Alleman, and he has an opportunity to play in an international soccer tournament.

The family is asking for donations to help cover the cost of his travel and lodging. Can you help provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for an 11-year-old with passion and a dream?

There is a GoFundMe page set up to make it easy for you to donate, click here.

Here is the letter:

 

His name is Miguel Andrade, he is 11 years old. He was born and raised in Louisiana, and is in the 6th grade at L.J. Alleman in Lafayette. He plays soccer for the Cajun Soccer Club “Fury 05”, as a defender.

Earlier this summer, Miguel attended soccer camp in San Antonio. At this camp (and others like it around the country), coaches, officials and scouts evaluate the kids on their skills, ability, and behavior. Out of over 5,000 kids who attended these camps, a total of 40 were hand-selected to represent the USA at the Donosti Cup in Spain. Miguel is one of those 40.

Miguel Andrade (Submitted Photo)
Miguel Andrade (Submitted Photo)
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The Donosti Cup is considered one of the best international tournaments, and the 5th in the world. The kids that attend these camps are considered the best of the best, not only for their ability on the field, but also for their behavior on and off of the field. The coaches place the same emphasis on playing, ability, and behavior. It is of the utmost importance players carry themselves whilst following the main FCB values: Humility, Respect, Effort, Ambition and Team Work.

Miguel is a great kid with a sweet soul. He strives to live by these values every day at home, at school and on the soccer field. Last year he worked exceptionally hard and even though it was his first year at a new school, his hard work was rewarded: he was nominated for 5th grader of the year, and he was awarded Magna Cum Laude Honor Roll for 2016-2017 School Year. Also, last year he was selected for the Olympic Development Team to represent Louisiana.

Miguel Andrade and coach (Submitted Photo)
Miguel Andrade and coach (Submitted Photo)
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Miguel has overcome some health challenges this past year, including Crohn’s Disease and Psoriasis. We believe that it is Miguel’s will to keep fighting (and never giving up), the support from his family, friends and soccer family, and his faith in God that helped him overcome these health challenges.

We are writing to you today to ask for your support: Miguel needs to raise money to help cover the cost of travel and accommodations for what we know is a trip of a lifetime. Our goal is to raise at least $5,000 to help with expenses. We have never felt comfortable asking for money (not even for school fundraisers), but we realize that an opportunity like this might not come his way again.

Please consider helping us reach our goal of raising $5,000. This trip will allow Miguel to pursue his passion (soccer); it will give him the opportunity to play against the best-of-the-best (on the World’s Stage!);  and it will expose him to different cultures which will, altogether, leave an indelible mark on his life.

Thank you in advance for your consideration and support. We’ll keep you updated on Miguel’s progress as he continues his fundraising efforts in hopes of taking part in this inspiring event.

Sincerely,

The family of Miguel Andrade

I have had the opportunity to meet this young man on several occasions, and the way he carries himself, the way he watches over his little brother, and the way he treats others is a true reflection of his heart, which, I assume, can barely be contained by his tiny frame. Join me in helping him be able to take a trip of a lifetime!

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