On Saturday, CUYS celebrated the end of the fall season with a special Soccer Saturday at Rose Tree Park, a continuation of our Goals in Gardens program. The children played soccer on a flat surface amidst rolling green hills while family members cheered them on.

Parents and guardians were also invited to choose from the books, hoodies, socks, hats and gloves that had been donated by DICK’s Sporting Goods, Good Sports and other benefactors. Kevin Coleman, Technical Director of promising new soccer club Sporting Delaware, even made a cameo appearance to drop off Philadelphia Union hats that were greatly appreciated by all.

Photo credit: Tina Jackson, @PixsbyTina and @HeyChef

As the training session ended under a gorgeous sunset, the holiday light display turned on. Dozens of colorfully lit trees and playful exhibits created a winter wonderland.

The view was spectacular as everyone enjoyed snacks provided by the generosity of the Merriam family.

Before exploring the light displays up close, some families lingered for an impromptu dance party at a nearby gazebo where Coach-Mentor (and DJ) Titus had thoughtfully set up music for our event.

Every family took home gift bags full of useful toiletries, healthy snacks and active toys. About half of the attending families rode the bus provided by generous funding from Boeing.

It was a glorious end to a very successful soccer season.

During the Fall 2021 after-school soccer program, CUYS served 250 children at five locations. (This reflected a complete return to normal levels of participation, following a much less active year when the pandemic forced after-school soccer training onto Zoom. Read about concerns stemming from that period here.)

Throughout the fall, enrolled children and their Coach-Mentors joyfully met on the field at least two times each week at each location. Families were invited to special events throughout the season as well.

Here are some reflections from our Coach-Mentors on the season:

“The young people enjoyed every moment of soccer. They were very welcoming and eager to learn.” - Coach Titus

“I enjoyed seeing the progress kids made. During our weekly practices I got to talk to them and get to know them personally. It was really great to see that they had a desire to learn and participate in the activities. I have never played soccer before in my life and during our first practice, all of the kids were encouraging me and their teammates. The games we played were competitive, but there was always good sportsmanship.” -Coach Jenna

“It was so much fun to lead them playing ‘Steal the Bacon’ which is a type of soccer mini game. I just remember everyone being so excited and into it. When we called their number the kids really played their best and cheered for their team.” - Coach Vinny

“It was great to see all of the smiles as soon as the kids saw the coaches.” - Coach Jimmy

“On the final day the kids were sad that it was over but happy that they had joined!” - Coach Edna

CUYS will operate winter soccer and special event programming in select locations before opening up its spring season in March 2022. Children are also encouraged to participate in Winter Vacation Zoom Camp which will include kitchen activities, interactive storytime, a virtual dance party and, of course, soccer. Those who pre-register will receive a camp bag full of supplies and treats.

To help support CUYS and the families served, either as a volunteer or a donor, please visit https://cuys.org/donate

Magical End to Fall Soccer Season

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