Carlin school’s after-school soccer program has been hugely successful, with kids in kindergarten to Grade 6 flocking to the fields every Wednesday after the last bell rings.
“Families who live out in our area sometimes find it difficult driving into Salmon Arm for all the extra things our children want to do,” says Kimberly Boyd, whose two sons participate. “We are thrilled to have a soccer program right here at the school. It is convenient for our family. Our boys love the sports program and have learned so much.”
Carlin Soccer is organized by parent volunteers. When 65 students signed up for the program this year, Carlin’s soccer co-ordinator Heather O’Brien was short of coaches.
“We found out we have some talent in the school we didn’t know about,” says O’Brien, who put out a call for help. “One parent coach has played soccer for years and was happy to hear that there was a chance for him to share his experience. The kids love him!”
This year, four groups of kids are coached by 10 dedicated volunteer coaches, including five middle-school mentors.
“Our parent and student support is amazing,” says O’Brien. “The program couldn’t run without them showing up every week.”
O’Brien offers thanks to Kristy Schroeder, who shows up every Wednesday, hauls all the equipment out to the fields, then coaches a group of Grade 2 and 3 students.
“And the parents who keep the kindies on track are incredible,” she says.
Besides a minimal $5 fee, Carlin Soccer also relies on the Jump Start program through Canadian Tire and Sport Chek, to help fund equipment and team T-shirts.
“After three years of hosting after-school soccer at the school, the families out here have come to rely on it,” O’Brien says.
“We really appreciate the dedicated parents and coaches who make this program possible for our kids,” says Carlin vice-principal Chelsea Prince. “We love that our kids have access to the same things as kids in town, without having to drive so far.”
For more information or to get involved, contact O’Brien at 250-835-4422.
