Taking advantage of warm weather and pristine soccer fields, coaches and players took part in a youth soccer camp at Parque de Vida, July 7-9.
Scheduled to continue July 14-16 and July 21-24, the camp will help players develop ball skills and enhance their knowledge of the game.
Twelve players between the ages of 9 and 12 have participated in the camp thus far. According to camp coach Dave Robinson, players between the ages of 8 and 18 are welcome to attend sessions in the next two weeks.
“We’re trying to get kids out during the lull times between spring and fall soccer,” said Robinson. “We’re trying to give them a little extra ball time.”
Players attending the camp participated in passing drills, ball handling drills and live gameplay.
Discussing her experience at the camp during the first week, 10-year-old Annabel McDermid stated that her skills have already improved.
“I really like all the drills that we do,” said McDermid. “They help us a lot.”
Voicing similar sentiments, 11-year-old Bruce Cudkowicz explained that in just over two days, he had already improved one of his weaknesses.
“I’ve gotten better at taking my shots and not letting them sail three miles over the goal,” said Cudkowicz.
Players interested in participating in any of the camp’s next six sessions can sign up online at www.tricitysoccer.com or show up at the Parque de Vida fields on July 14 or July 21.
According to Robinson, attendance at the camp would be valuable for young players looking to get better.
“Offseason work makes on-season work easier,” said Robinson. “If you have kids in the weight room or out playing, you always see a noticeable difference.”