Los Angeles Police Department's Soccer Program: LAPD Soccer Team Bolsters Community Support in Rampart Division

LA United F.C. - First Place Champions

April 10, 2011, the LAPD Soccer Program was invited to participate in a local Hispanic Media Soccer Tournament hosted by El Piche Committee. This committee is comprised of businessmen of the Salvadorian community that provide assistance to underprivileged Central and South America’s.

The tournament was played at Liechty Middle School on Wilshire Blvd. in Rampart Division. Recent events in this area have caused some concern by many that reside in this area. Our officers reached out on their own time to help bolster good will between all and participated in a parade to salute that community. Our officers further extending their hands in good will to let the community know that we care about them. To further underline those feelings, Chief Charlie Beck was the guest of honor. Chief Beck also took time out of his busy schedule to support our two teams and the community and act as a Grand Marshall at the festivities

The LA United F.C. rose to the occasion and won their first game. In the second game, we played a very determined Local Media Team. At the end of the game, we were tied. So on to shootouts. It was a see-saw battle back and forth, but in the end, LA United prevailed with several brilliant saves by our outstanding goalie P-2 Manuel Mendieta of Wilshire Area. That win pushed us ahead to the finals.

In the finals, we again found ourselves battling back and forth against another very skilled local club team. That game also ended in a tie. Back to shootouts. Could our goalie, Officer Mendieta, save the day once more? Everyone was extremely nervous…. One missed shot and it would be all over for us. But we had a secret weapon… that was Mendieta our goalie. He was spectacular and stopped the opposing teams shot to earn us the first place medal. Tournament champions!

We wish to express our sincere appreciation to The Hispanic Media, El Piche Committee and all those that helped organize this event, making it the success that it was. And to Chief Beck, thank you for supporting your off duty officers that volunteered their personal time to make a difference in the City they work. And finally to all the officers and their supporters that gave up their own time to further a great cause in neutering a meaningful relationship in the community they serve.