Police called after 3‑year‑old soccer phenom dominates Florida youth game, family says

WINTER PARK, Fla. — Police were called to a youth soccer game after parents complained that a 3‑year‑old player named Nevada was outperforming older children, a dispute that went viral and left the toddler “traumatized,” his mother said. Nevada’s family says the league asked them to leave and later refunded their fall registration fee.

Parents Reportedly Object to Nevada’s Dominant Play

Nevada played in an i9 Sports league with 5‑year‑olds. His mother, Martasia, told The Huffington Post adults repeatedly targeted him because he scored easily and controlled the ball.

A viral video shows Nevada dribbling past defenders and scoring multiple goals during the fall season.

His father, Don, can be heard saying, “They called the police on a 3‑year‑old because he’s too good… because he had the ball for too long.”

Martasia told the outlet the game stopped as soon as Nevada began scoring. She says parents, coaches and the league director formed a circle to discuss removing him so other children could play.

“When I walked up, they said everybody pays money, so everybody should play,” she said. “Once I spoke up for Nevada, they called the police.”

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Police Respond After League Requests Assistance

Winter Park Police confirmed officers were called by a league official who reported a disturbance involving Nevada’s parents.

Authorities said the matter was civil and that no one was arrested, trespassed or forced to leave.

However, the family says the league issued a trespass notice before officers escorted them off the field.

Police logs show conflicting accounts. One entry says parents were upset about playing time. Another says they believed Nevada was criticized for playing too well.

Officers said the family cooperated and left after the game ended. Body‑camera footage supports that account.

League Issues Statement and Refunds Family

i9 Sports said in a statement to media it contacted the family and launched a review. The organization emphasized the “respectful treatment and well‑being of every child and family.”

It said it would not speculate while gathering verified information.

The family says the league refunded their fall 2026 registration fee.

Viral Reaction and New Opportunities

The incident drew national attention after posts from the family and commentary from public figures including Robert Griffin III.

Online reactions ranged from outrage to accusations of bias, with many viewers calling the situation “heartbreaking.”

Nevada began dribbling at 10 months old and trains three hours a day with his father, according to Martasia.

Former professional player Eddie Johnson noticed the viral video and invited Nevada to join his Orlando‑based youth training program in January.

Martasia says Nevada still wants to play soccer but fears returning to the same field. “He’s scared he did something wrong,” she said.