In Parlier, California, where community events like youth football games bring families together, one mother’s story has sparked frustration and calls for better leadership.
Marissa Ceballos shared a detailed Facebook post about how her 8-year-old daughter, Milani, was repeatedly promised the chance to sing the national anthem at Parlier Youth Football & Cheer games, only to be denied both times.
The incident highlights the disappointment that can arise from broken promises in youth programs designed to uplift children.
Parlier, a farming community in Fresno County with a population of around 15,000, relies on organizations like the Parlier Youth Football & Cheer to foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth among its young residents.
The league, which serves children from elementary through middle school, hosts games and events that emphasize physical activity and community spirit, often including ceremonial elements like the national anthem to instill pride and patriotism.
The trouble started when Milani was scheduled to perform at the league’s first home game. That game got canceled, so the performance was rescheduled for the next one.
On the day of the rescheduled game, Marissa received a call from Milani’s cheer coach, explaining that Elena Gonzalez, the league’s organizer and president, as well as a board member of the Parlier Unified School District (PUSD), had to cancel due to a double booking.
Marissa accepted it at first, thinking it was fair since the original slot had been disrupted. She broke the news to her daughter, who had been practicing diligently and was understandably bummed out.
That evening, Milani wanted to stay and listen to the anthem anyway, curious about who would sing in her place.
To their surprise, no one did an instrumental version; instead, an instrumental version was played.
Confused, Milani asked her mom why no one was singing, and Marissa could only reassure her not to worry.
Later, Marissa approached Elena about the mix-up, pointing out that despite the supposed double booking, they opted for an instrumental track.
Elena explained that it was pre-planned for the 9/11 weekend, complete with a large flag display on the field, but she apologized and promised that Milani could sing at the next home game, Senior Night. Frustrated but hopeful, Marissa agreed.
Senior Night arrived, and Milani was buzzing with excitement, ready to share her voice finally.
These events are special in youth leagues, as they honor graduating eighth-graders and create memorable moments for families.
Typically, the anthem plays before the final game, but when an instrumental version kicked off the first game, Marissa wondered if the format had changed.
She texted the cheer coach for clarification, who directed her to Elena. After no response to her message, Marissa found Elena at the game and asked which slot Milani would have.
Elena’s reply stunned her: “No, she’s not singing today. We already have someone singing.”
Marissa couldn’t believe it, reminding Elena of her earlier promise. Elena denied ever saying that, leading to a tense exchange in which Marissa emphasized that the program was intended for the kids.
Elena agreed in principle but stood firm on her decision, offering only a brief “sorry.” Marissa walked away fuming, later regretting not insisting that Elena break the news to Milani herself.
After cheering her game, Milani approached her mom with a big smile, eager to perform.
Marissa had to deliver the crushing blow once again, leaving her daughter confused and disappointed, as she wondered why the adults had gone back on their word.
Marissa Ceballos, in her Facebook post, wrote:
“So again, thank you to Elena Gonzalez, board member and president of the Parlier Youth Football League, for letting down an 8-year-old girl.”
Via Facebook
Elena Gonzales has been a PUSD Board Member for Nine Years and is recognized for her Volunteer Work
Elena Gonzales, who has served on the PUSD board since at least 2016 and was re-elected in 2024, is known in the community for her volunteer work.
She and her family help run the Parlier Youth Football & Cheer program, dedicating time to organizing events that benefit local kids.
As board clerk for PUSD, she plays a key role in educational decisions affecting Parlier’s schools, which serve a predominantly Hispanic student population in a district focused on equity and community involvement.
The league itself promotes positive values through football and cheer, with recent social media posts celebrating Senior Night and honoring participants for their growth into young adults.
Yet, incidents like this raise questions about communication and fairness in volunteer-run organizations.
The post drew supportive comments from family and community members, amplifying the call for accountability.
The Post Received Positive Comments from Family and Community Members, Increasing the call for Accountability
Ashley Ceballos, Milani’s aunt, expressed heartbreak over seeing her niece’s excitement dashed twice, stressing that leadership should model integrity and uplift children in a world already full of challenges.
She wrote about how such moments teach kids that their efforts matter and urged community leaders to do better.
Alyssa Serna criticized the lack of explanation, apology, or empathy, especially from someone in dual leadership roles, calling it disheartening and shameful.
Leticia Esqueda found the situation disturbing, accusing Elena of not acting in the children’s best interest and demanding a personal apology to the little girl.
“This is so disturbing! Clearly this women is not acting in the best interest of the children. Shame on the school board and this women. She needs to be held accountable for her poor actions.They clearly don’t care how this impacts their children. Elena Gonzales, this little girl deserves an apology from YOU!! “
Via Facebook
For an 8-year-old like Milani, singing the national anthem wasn’t just a performance; it was a chance to feel proud, represent her community, and build confidence.
When adults in charge fail to follow through, it can erode trust and enthusiasm.
While the Parlier Youth Football & Cheer continues to host games and celebrate its participants, experiences like Marissa’s remind everyone involved that clear communication and keeping promises are key to truly supporting the next generation.
As the community moves forward, perhaps this will spark positive changes to ensure no other child faces similar disappointment.
