By Samuel Olusegun Precious
Outrage has trailed a viral video showing police being called to a youth football match in Winter Park, Florida, USA, after parents complained about a 3-year-old Black boy who was outclassing 5-year-olds.
The boy, identified as Nevada Pierre – TikTok: @nevadaney10 – was playing in an i9 Sports league for 5-year-olds when drama erupted on Saturday, October 25, at Martin Luther King Jr. Park.
What Happened?
According to Nevada’s parents, Martasia Griffin and his father, their son was dominating the game – dribbling past older kids and scoring goals. Other parents allegedly huddled together complaining that their kids could not take the ball from him. His mother said the coach first told Nevada he could stay if he passed the ball more, but later benched him repeatedly. When his parents questioned the decision, league director Thomas Hayes called police.
In a 911 call at 9:50am, Hayes said: “There is a parent here that’s really, really disruptive. Like following me around, calling me names… Can you have someone quickly get here?”
Bodycam footage shows the moment police arrived. Nevada’s father is heard saying: “They called the police on a 3-year-old because he’s too good.”
His mother told officers in shock: “They’re literally kicking him out of this place because he’s good at soccer. They’re mad at my son because he actually plays soccer.”
League Gives Different Story
The organizer told police: “The kid is very good… He’s great. Really good. He’s very advanced compared to the other ones, so he’s scoring a lot of goals. But he’s pushing the kids.”
He claimed Nevada was pushing opponents and his parents caused “a big scene” when he was benched. However, viral videos shared by the family show no pushing, only exceptional skill. Winter Park Police later clarified they were called over a dispute between adults, not to arrest the toddler. No one was arrested.
The league refunded the family’s fees and said they are reviewing the incident.
Reactions
The video has hit millions of views. Former US star Eddie Johnson said: “This is sad and shouldn’t be tolerated in youth sports.”Ms Rachel (YouTube star) offered to feature Nevada on her show. Many online called it racial bias, saying a Black child’s talent was being punished. Nevada’s mother said: “It really traumatized Nevada. He still wants to play soccer. He just doesn’t want to go back to that place.”
