New Mexico Games honors teen athlete who competed year after brain tumor removed

The New Mexico Games announced the male and female athletes of the year — Daphne Salas and Marcus Williams.

Duke City Barracuda Swim Club nominated Salas, 13, who competes in swimming, water polo and basketball. Salas was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor a year and a half ago, but she continued to persevere, competing in the 2023 New Mexico Games swim competition just a year after surgery to remove the tumor. Her team won second place. Salas also competed in the National Water Polo Junior Olympics.

“Daphne showcases what it means to never give up,” said Megan McMillan, New Mexico Games interim executive director. “Daphne’s inspiring story of perseverance motivates and inspires us all to have a positive outlook on life. She is the true definition of a warrior.”

A New Mexico native, Williams, 33, led Rio Rancho to a state basketball title and later played at Cochise College and Sam Houston State. Williams and his team have won the New Mexico Games basketball tournament 10 years in a row.

“Marcus demonstrates the caliber of talent in our state,” McMillan said. “Marcus is a talented athlete who has played basketball on many different levels. He makes us proud on and off the basketball court.”

According to a news release, the New Mexico Games is the largest annual sports festival in the state. Over 3,500 athletes participate in more than 15 sports in an Olympic-style competition from May to November.