LAGUNA, N.M. - The Laguna Hawk Youth Football team are incredibly proud to share exciting news about our student athletes within our community.
Six young men from New Mexico have been selected as Pop Warner All-American Scholars for the first time in four years, with three representing Laguna Pueblo. Among those honorees are: Daniel Juanico from Seama, Peyton Day from Paraje, and Ethyn Lucero from Seama.
They are set to participate in the Pop Warner All-American Scholar Banquet in Chicago in March 2026, which is a national event celebrating student-athletes who demonstrate excellence both athletically and academically. Selected from more than 3,000 applicants, they ranked among the top 35 candidates in their grade.
Pop Warner is founded on the idea that academics are the top priority. Encouraging children to develop strong study habits early helps them succeed as they move up to the next grade.
To be eligible for this distinguished recognition, athletes are required to uphold stringent academic criteria by maintaining a 96% grade average throughout an entire academic year, in addition to actively participating in football or cheerleading. Selection as a Pop Warner All-American Scholar signifies not only athletic proficiency but also demonstrates discipline, character, leadership, perseverance, and engagement in community service.
Although the Laguna Hawks youth football organization is football- oriented, we have always aimed to be more than just a football team. From the beginning, one of our goals has been to teach our players what it truly means to be a student-athlete, prioritizing education, accountability, community involvement, and personal growth alongside athletics. Having six athletes recognized at the national level, including three from Laguna Pueblo, is a powerful affirmation of that mission and a tremendous point of pride for our entire community.
Head Coach Sando often reminds our players:
“What happens after a bad play? A good play. What happens after a good play? A bad play. What matters most? The next play.” – Coach Sando
This mindset reflects these young men’s growth. Success means resilience, focus, and progress regardless of the situation, an approach they apply both on the field and in class.
Please join us in congratulating Daniel, Peyton, Ethyn, and their fellow honorees on this incredible achievement. The Laguna Hawks youth football team and Laguna Pueblo stand proudly behind you.