United Soccer Club: For our players in DC

For almost two years now, a couple times a week, we have been showing up to fields, tucked away in DC's less desirable neighborhoods. Before practice begins, we usually have a moment alone or with our fellow coaches to soak in the elements, set up some cones, or pick up some trash. This is in preparation of the onslaught of 50 screaming kids who will soon be running toward us at full speed. We sometimes hear them before we see them as their excitement reaches us before their bodies do. This is their field, their time, and the love they have developed for the game. We hug, we coach, we remind a few kids to zip up their flies, and we use their new love for the game to encourage good character and a healthy lifestyle. However, some days, we just hug and give high fives for a few hours...sometimes that is the encouragement they need to be a better player on the field. Its the consistency that develops this love for the sport and desire to be better on and off the field. The field and the rules of the game have become a reflection of their day to day, and their futures. The whistle has become a gentle reminder of good behavior and sportsmanship. The drills are designed to improve physical skill and develop team work. The soccer ball becomes a metaphor for hard work and self motivation. All 3 of these dynamics make these kids successful on the field, and lead them in the right directions off the field.

We coach the kids in DC because they are the future of soccer. But more importantly they are the future of this community. And while some days we are just there to give some hugs and tie some shoes, it is the positive attention they need to conquer all on and off the field.

Please join us in giving the at risk youth in Washington DC and other little players around the city the opportunity to continue to play this beautiful game...they need equipment. Most do not have the proper gear to play, and we see a lot of bruised shins out there. Also, we like to support the coaches who give generously of their time, expertise, and love for the game to these kids who so desperately need all of those elements for long term success.

*You know you are doing something right when the kids who have moved on to Junior High come to the practices to assist with the drills and get another round of hugs and high fives.