Transcript for Juega en la Misión

Everyday at Garfield Square on 25th and Harrison, José Gúzman can be heard

calling out drills while his players practice for the next game.

Guzman, city recreation director, has been involved with soccer for more than 20 years.

I coach over six teams I coach right now an under five, under six,

under seven, under 10, under 11 and under 17 boys.

I have a lot of help with volunteers if not it would be impossible to do

in a week I work with over 200 kids, so if I didn't have special volunteers

I couldn't make it. I have six to ten volunteers come out and help me each week.

This summer he also worries that the city's budget crisis

will put his players at risk.

Recognizing this great program and the biggest issue is always money,

getting equipment and just getting the support to say hey

let these guys go out there and show what they have.

A lot of times, too much politics stop them from doing what

is not hurting anyone in the long run.

On the field, there are no politics. It's a game that keeps young kids engaged.

I do other things, but I'd probably be pretty bored on the weekends.

'cause when we don't have games I don't do anything. Watching tv after a while is boring.

I like to play soccer.

But the older players also realize they have a role beyond soccer.

It's really fun to play and it gives you something to do instead of doing dumb things on the street.

You could always just get good at something and keep on building it up.

Guzman worries about what would happen if this all vanished.

It hurts the city I think, 'cause you stop something good

and they do vandalism, and do other stuff when they were doing great

and you stop the program.

Already parks and recreation has cut 75 employees

And they talk now about closing parks.

For now, guzman tries to ignore the budget mess

and focus instead on getting more volunteers.

The can come down to Garfield square and look for Guzman

and they'll tell you where to find soccer.

What have you learned playing soccer?

The sportmanship, don't argue with the ref,

have fun

and making friends.