GR Teen Named to Guatemala's Under-17 Soccer Team
A 15-year-old Grand Rapids sophomore will compete internationally for Guatemala.
Angel Mendez-Lopez, a student at Southwest Middle High, has been selected for Guatemala's U-17 men's national soccer team. He departed for competition on July 5, 2026, marking a proud moment for local youth sports.
Grand Rapids has a new soccer star on the international stage. Angel Mendez-Lopez, a 15-year-old sophomore at Southwest Middle High, was named to Guatemala's Under-17 men's national soccer team after standout performances at the MLS NEXT Fest. He left Grand Rapids on Sunday morning, July 5, 2026, to join the team for upcoming competitions.
Mendez-Lopez, who has Guatemalan heritage, earned his spot through hard work on the field, catching scouts' eyes during the national showcase. This opportunity not only represents a personal milestone but also shines a light on the growing soccer culture in Grand Rapids, especially with a new professional stadium in the works.
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Looking forward, Mendez-Lopez is already focused on his future in the sport, with aspirations to play professionally in Grand Rapids. His journey from local fields to a national team roster inspires young athletes across the city and underscores the support systems that make such achievements possible.
