The SEAGAM Soccer Team, a vital part of the Gambian diaspora in Washington State, joined forces with the Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center (HIPRC) on Friday evening to deliver a transformative community event at the Mindsight Mentors Center in Everett. Drawing at least 100 attendees, this free gathering focused on educating families about injury prevention and youth empowerment, seamlessly blending the team’s soccer heritage with critical safety initiatives.
Founded in September 2000 by Gambian immigrants, SEAGAM FC began as a modest soccer group at Shoreline Community College, playing in jerseys donated by a local coach. Over 25 years, it has grown into a semi-professional outfit competing in the UPSL Pacific Northwest Division, embodying unity and resilience. “We’re more than a soccer team—we’re a beacon for Gambian youth, promoting health, safety, and leadership,” declared Ibrahim Drammeh, a key SEAGAM leader, during the event. He added, “It’s truly an honor to represent an organization that has been a cornerstone for Gambians in the Seattle area for nearly twenty-five years.”
This partnership with HIPRC, a renowned research center based in Seattle, marks a pivotal moment. The evening showcased SEAGAM’s journey while tackling urgent community issues like youth substance use, crime, and preventable injuries—challenges highlighted by the tragic loss of a player to a concussion-related incident years ago. “This collaboration equips our youth and families with tools to stay safe, on and off the field,” said Ebou Cham, a Gambian-born nurse anesthetist and event organizer, emphasizing the event’s purpose.
The program featured an impressive roster of experts. Dr. Megan Moore, HIPRC Director, outlined family engagement opportunities, while Dr. Emily Kroshus addressed concussion prevention and management. Dr. Beth Ebel provided insights on pediatric safety, and Dr. Keith Hullennaar showcased the Empowering Youth Justice program. Community leaders like Joseph Jassey of Mindsight Mentors, Pa Ousman Joof, Executive Director of the Washington West African Center (WAWAC), and Sona Sankareh, President of the Northwest Seattle Gambia Association (NWSGA), shared valuable perspectives. “This is a game-changer for our community,” Sankareh remarked, underscoring the focus on safety and empowerment.
The event’s goals were threefold: to highlight SEAGAM’s evolution, foster partnerships with HIPRC for community-based research, and create a platform for dialogue and collaboration. Attendees included leaders from NWSGA, WAWAC, Refugees Northwest, and the Community Foundation of Snohomish County, which supports a Violence Prevention Grant, strengthening the network of support.
SEAGAM’s community impact is undeniable. Since 2023, the team has hosted clinics serving over 500 children, a legacy extended by tonight’s interactive Q&A sessions and refreshments. This aligns with rising youth sports participation in Washington, where injury rates remain a concern, according to HIPRC data.
Joof highlighted WAWAC’s 2025 achievements, supporting over 6,000 individuals with free accommodation, food, and training. Sankareh praised SEAGAM as a “bridge” for youth development, referencing NWSGA’s 2021 ballot drive that collected over 200 votes and an upcoming November 8 event in Lynnwood, “Gambian Voices: Youth Stories, Culture & Connection.” “Our story is one of unity, resilience, and cultural pride—values that shine every time SEAGAM steps onto the field,” Drammeh noted. “For many, SEAGAM has been a platform for belonging, leadership, and positive identity.”
Rooted in African values of togetherness, the event emphasized a holistic approach to prevention. “It takes a village to raise a child,” Sankareh said, pointing to NWSGA’s back-to-school drives and cultural celebrations that preserve identity. This extends beyond physical safety to mental and emotional well-being, supported by partnerships with groups like the Washington State Coalition of African Community Leaders.
As the Gambian community continues to grow, the event, in collaboration with HIPRC, empowers future generations. “When we lift each other, we make life better for everyone,” Sankareh said, capturing the evening’s unifying spirit. With heartfelt gratitude to HIPRC and community partners, SEAGAM reaffirms its commitment to inspire and protect through education, wellness, and sport.
