LA Galaxy Collaborates with CVUSD to Inspire Migrant Student Athletes

Migrant students attend LA Galaxy match and meet with players in exclusive mentorship program

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Coachella Valley Unified School District migrant student-athletes were given the unique opportunity to attend an LA Galaxy soccer match and participate in a "fireside chat" with LA Galaxy players, as part of an ongoing collaboration between the school district and the MLS club to inspire and motivate students through athletics and mentorship.

Why it matters

The partnership between CVUSD and LA Galaxy aims to provide migrant students, many of whom face significant educational and economic challenges, with access to positive role models and experiences that can help motivate them and open up new opportunities through sports.

The details

The event was held during the 2026 Coachella Valley Invitational preseason MLS tournament, which is taking place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California from February 7th to 21st. The tournament will feature 12 MLS teams and 9 NWSL teams, making it the largest CVI event ever.

  • The event took place on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.
  • The 2026 Coachella Valley Invitational preseason tournament runs from February 7th to 21st.

The players

LA Galaxy

A professional soccer club that plays in Major League Soccer (MLS).

Coachella Valley Unified School District (CVUSD)

A public school district that serves students in the Coachella Valley region of California.

Joe Tutino

A broadcast announcer who moderated the "fireside chat" between the LA Galaxy players and the migrant student-athletes.

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What’s next

The Coachella Valley Invitational tournament will continue through February 21st, providing more opportunities for CVUSD students to engage with professional soccer players and teams.

The takeaway

This collaboration between LA Galaxy and CVUSD demonstrates the power of sports to inspire and motivate young people, particularly those facing significant challenges, and the importance of providing access to positive role models and experiences that can help open up new opportunities.