Menomonie High School Soccer Multicultural Night

The Menomonie High School boys soccer program held its first-ever Multicultural Night on Tuesday, October 7th, transforming a home game into a celebration of diversity, unity, and community pride. The event highlighted the wide range of cultural backgrounds represented on the team and throughout Menomonie, while sending a message of inclusion, understanding, and pride.

The current roster includes players whose families represent a wide range of countries and cultural backgrounds. Over the years, the Mustang Soccer program has welcomed students and exchange participants from around the world, reflecting the truly global nature of the sport. While soccer continues to grow in popularity in the United States, it has long served as a universal language — one that can bridge cultures, connect communities, and bring people together.

“Soccer is a universal language,” said Veronika Zazovsky, President of MHS Boys Soccer, Inc. “Our players may come from different countries, speak different languages at home, or practice different faiths — but once they put on the Mustang uniform, they unite as one team, one family. That’s what this night is about: honoring those differences while celebrating the unity they create.”

Unfortunately, the path to inclusion isn’t always easy. Some students have faced bullying or insensitivity based on their nationality, appearance, or religious background. Instead of responding with anger, the team and its supporters chose education, visibility, and love — turning a painful moment into a positive community celebration.

“As an immigrant myself, I understand how difficult it can be for families who are new to this country,” Zazovsky added. “Many immigrant parents face language and financial barriers, and children often work long hours after school to help their families. Participating in sports can seem out of reach — but these kids overcome incredible obstacles just to step onto that field. When they play, they’re not only representing themselves — they’re playing for all of us who didn’t have those opportunities.”

During Multicultural Night, fans filled the stands and were encouraged to wear traditional clothing or accessories representing their heritage. Messages of unity were displayed in multiple languages, and a community “heritage board” invited attendees to share where their families came from. Flags representing the backgrounds of varsity and junior varsity players lined the field. Concessions even included traditional Ukrainian borscht, along with cupcakes decorated with miniature flags from around the world.

“This event was about pride, belonging, and respect,” said Zazovsky. “Our kids may come from many different places, but on the field, under the Mustang flag, they play as one.”

Submitted article.