VSP hosts second soccer tournament

May 12, 2026

Valley State Prison (VSP) held its second soccer tournament April 25 in partnership with Fuego FC, a Fresno-based team representing California’s Central Valley. The event was organized in collaboration with Scott Budnick, CEO of One Community LLC, and brought a strong spirit of competition and connection to the facility.

Supported by acting Warden O’Brian Bailey and Chief Deputy Warden Pedro Chanelo, VSP worked alongside the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC) to create a meaningful and engaging experience for the incarcerated population. The tournament fostered a sense of community, encouraged rehabilitation, and promoted positive interaction through structured athletic competition.

The event was made possible through the coordinated efforts of:

VSP staff
Investigative Services Unit officers
Community Resources Manager CheRonn Countee-Sherman
Physical Education Teacher Scott Ishimoto
and ARC staff members Johny Diaz and Christopher Acosta.

Beyond the game

The second Valley State Prison soccer tournament with Fresno Fuego.

In addition to the games, the day featured community circles. In these gatherings, Fuego FC players and incarcerated participants engaged in open dialogue. They discussed personal growth, accountability, and shared life experiences. The initiative reflects a broader effort to use sports and conversation as tools for rehabilitation and positive change within correctional settings.

“We take pride in making a positive impact on others. Everyone makes mistakes—what matters is learning from them,” said Brian Easler, president of Fresno Fuego. “Some experiences are more difficult than others, and every person carries a different story. But the goal is the same: to grow, to become better, and to give back. Being in a position to give back is incredibly meaningful, because life is bigger than any one individual. While we aim to impact others, we’re also changed in the process. Hearing these stories often challenges what we thought we understood.”

Fresno Fuego players and leadership look forward to more events at the prison.

“We’re eager to build more opportunities at VSP through soccer. While we recognize we can’t operate exactly as we would on the outside, we’re committed to finding ways to keep people engaged. We believe sports can be a meaningful pathway for growth, connection, and becoming better human beings,” Easler said.

Submitted by Lt. J. Reyes

Did you know? May is Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Learn more on the US Department of Health & Human Services website.

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