A rising star in Phoenix's youth football scene, 15-year-old Ryder Noche, has been named the first-ever NFL Flag 14U Boys Player of the Year by the NFL, an honor that included a walk on the red carpet and recognition on stage at the NFL Honors in Las Vegas this month; Noche, a freshman at Brophy College Prep, impressed with 17 touchdowns in his first year on the team, reports azfamily.com.
Meanwhile, in a bid to shape the lives of local youth through sports, retired NFL linebacker Lorenzo Alexander is coaching over 250 kids in the NFL Flag football league in Arcadia, and he's bringing his experience and connections to foster community support in south Phoenix, which he says is "near and dear" to his heart, Alexander's efforts include providing free haircuts and backpacks to kids in need with the help of Skyline Prep head football coach and Athletic Director Jamarei Bryant, who praised the former player's contributions, "I love what he’s doing, I love the things he’s given back to the community," Bryant told azcentral.com.
Alexander's ACES Foundation has also been working to provide a positive impact beyond athletics by engaging in civic engagement programs for youth, "It was phenomenal hearing the dialogue of youth talking about ways to improve the communities they live in," said Dana Burns of A Permanent Voice, a south Phoenix community organization, recognizing the efforts of Alexander's foundation; his initiatives are aimed at teaching responsibility and pride within the community, offering kids a chance to experience different cultures and lifestyles, a mission statement of ACES strives to support youth toward educational excellence while promoting a healthy mind, body, and spirit through sports, as stated by azcentral.com.
During the holiday season, Alexander's focus on helping others took a compassionate twist as he adopted an apartment community called Grand Families Place, helping many grandparents who are raising grandchildren in traumatizing situations, "He truly was a God-sent angel for the families and he's already reached out to me inquiring about what their needs are for this year," Dana Burns expressed her gratitude thus showcasing the retired athlete's commitment to the Phoenix community and embodying the spirit of generosity especially during challenging times, as reported by azcentral.com.
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