The Player Project and Greener Partners Add Zest to Eddystone Soccer Saturday

On October 15, the children of Eddystone Elementary were treated to a special morning.

First, they engaged in an energetic and fun “Soccer Saturday” training session led by Coach Freeman Dwamena of The Player Project, Eddystone Soccer for Success Site Director Crystal Brooks, Coach-Mentors Matt Effinger, Kathy McGovern, Edna Tribbett, Nicole Taylor, Alyssa Allen and volunteer coaches Allison, Ryan and Kamal.

Coach Freeman shared, “It was not just about coaching them how to play soccer, but more like getting to know and understand them, and that made them happier and inspired them to have more fun playing soccer.”

Then, Jonathan Hamm of Greener Partners brought his organization’s Farm Explorer Truck, taught the children about gardening and healthy eating, and allowed them to use a exercise bike to power a blender to make smoothies with fresh herbs . Finally, participating families enjoyed a pizza picnic under the warm sun.

“The coaches worked hard, Jonathan from Greener Partners was fantastic and enthusiastic, and the kids had so much fun! We couldn’t have asked for a better session,” reported Ms. Brooks.

The Player Project’s mission is to use sport as a conduit to give, serve, and love. The organization trains athletes to “grow and develop in every aspect of your sport, but most importantly as a person. Moreover, our goal is to use funds we earn to give back to the underprivileged and those who do not have the resources to thrive in their environment. We want to give opportunity to everyone through sport and meet them right where they are, no matter where they are.”

Greener Partner’s mission is to strengthen community health through equitable fresh food access, abundant gardens and farms, and discovery-based learning.

Chester Upland Youth Soccer is grateful to have such committed and productive partners and staffers making such special events happen for the children we serve.