If you are traveling on Dexter Lane in Rochester on a Saturday morning, you may see a future World Cup star. Why? The Marion Recreation Department offers a youth soccer program for boys and girls ages 3-13. Residents of the Tri-town area, Acushnet, and Wareham participate in this fun, learning experience. Currently, approximately 300 youngsters participate in the program under the direction of Eric Parada. Several volunteer coaches assist Coach Parada. The only cost is $95 for uniforms. For fifteen years, this program was known as the Oceaneers, but was taken over four years ago by the Marion Recreation Department.
You may be wondering what exactly do the little ones do in this program. They learn the basics of soccer, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Once they master the basics, they are able to have scrimmages with other participants their own age. More importantly they are outside getting exercise, fresh air, and having fun.
For older players who have the necessary skills, they engage in games with their peers. They also have the opportunity to play other teams in the area. The most experienced players may be part of the travel team. This team plays teams on the South Shore who are the same age. For any youngster hoping to play soccer in high school, this is an excellent way to learn the game. Soccer (or football as it is known across the pond) has become incredibly popular in the U.S. in recent years. Virtually any hour of the day, you can find a game on television. Both men’s and women’s World Cup are two of the popular events worldwide. Everyone recognizes the names Mia Hamm, David Beckham, Manchester United, and the New England Revolution.
If you are looking for an activity in the fall for your child, consider the Marion Recreation Department soccer program every Saturday morning (weather permitting). Safety and your child’s health come first. It is so much wiser to let your child learn the game from people who know the game. This is the best way to avoid injuries.