La Quinta holds football clinic to support student-athlete with Leukemia

The La Quinta high school football team hosted a clinic Saturday morning to help raise funds for a teammate in need. Sophomore Max Borbon was recently diagnosed with leukemia.

“It was a heartbreak. It was like a dagger to the heart when I found he had leukemia. He’s the last kid you’d want anything bad to happen to because he’s such a great kid…very quiet, very humble,” said Patrick Rivenes, the La Quinta High School Football Coach.

“When we learned about his diagnosis honestly it was surreal we couldn’t believe the news we couldn’t believe something so tragic could happen to somebody so genuien and so perfect and with such a good heart,” said Fred Massie, a teammate of Max Borbon.

Max was on both the football and track and field teams for the blackhawks, but can longer compete given his medical condition.

His team — determined to support him and help his family pay for the overwhelming and unexpected medical bills.

“It feels really great to help out one of my brothers that is needing it,” said Jerry Molina, a teammate of Max Borbon.

The clinic brought hundreds of kids out from kindergarten to 8th grade, and was led by Max’s teammates, who say they’re happy to help in any way they can. All proceeds are going to help cover his medical expenses.

“He brings joy to everybody…I love him as a person…as a best friend too,” Gabriel Martinez, teammate of Borbon.

“Max is a really good person. He’s probably one of the best people you’ll ever meet. strong…never gives up no matter what,” said Molina.

“He’s a great strong guy strong heart he’s a fighter he’s going to get through this,” said Hugo Zuniga, teammate of Borbon.

If you’d like to donate and help Borbon and his family during this difficult time, Coach Rivenes says they are collecting donations through the football booster club. You can make checks payable to LA QUINTA FOOTBALL BOOSTERS or reach out to the La Quinta High School Athletic Director here: juan.ruiz@desertsands.us