PURPOSE
To provide soccer training and experiences to children living in economically depressed
areas who otherwise would never be exposed to the sport.
PHILOSOPHY
Soccer Start is a sports participation program designed to introduce the sport of soccer
to youth living in economically disadvantaged areas of the United States by utilizing
community based support groups as a starting goal.
DESCRIPTION
The Soccer Start program targets disadvantaged kids in rural, urban and suburban areas who
need an activity outside of school in their environment.
Soccer Start recruits community groups to assist in their programs, including city
governments, parks and recreation departments, housing authorities and police athletic
associations or leagues. Business leaders and their organizations, churches, YMCA's and
Boys and Girls Clubs are recruited as well. Soccer Start further integrates the program
with state and local soccer associations, active sponsors and community activists and
leaders.
The broad goals of the Soccer Start program at the local level are to reach out to
children at-risk and develop an on-going program to provide them with a positive activity
outside of school; increase participants' self-esteem; through activities and role models,
build positive social and life skills; and provide exercise and fun for participants.
ELIGIBILITY
The Soccer Start program is aimed at children living at or below the disadvantaged line in
rural, urban or suburban areas. Within these communities the program is designed to reach
children at-risk and those with no regular organized activity outside of school. At-risk
situations could include exposure to crime and drugs, language and cultural barriers,
single-parent homes or learning disabilities. |
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Additional information can be
obtained by calling
1-800-4-SOCCER |
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