Widener University Students Provide "See It, Be It" Inspiration

Widener University students were the original Coach-Mentors for Chester Upland Youth Soccer when the program was founded in 2012. Unfortunately, the pandemic interrupted the consistency of the college students’ presence in the children’s lives, but now relationships are growing stronger than ever.

Over 20 Widener students (including many varsity soccer players) have stepped up to help coach the program’s 2023 winter and spring seasons.

Additionally, Widener students volunteered at recent events held on campus intended to help the children of Chester Upland Youth Soccer feel encouraged and inspired about their futures.

For example, on January 21, college students hosted the children for a STEM career discovery day created at the request of CUYS and its sister organization, Youth Development United. All played indoor soccer together as part of the “brain break” midway through, then further bonded during lunch in the dining hall afterward.

Another such event, focused on careers in physical, occupational, and speech therapies, will take place in March and once again connect the children with role model college students and welcoming professors.

Additionally, CUYS children recently enjoyed a different type of training session by participating in a Youth Development United ballet class on Widener campus. Two college students joined a professional ballerina and one of the long-standing CUYS soccer coaches, who also has extensive ballet experience, instructing and mentoring the children. All proceeded to a group dinner at the college dining hall following the session. The day was a big hit for all, and so now more such programs are being planned.

"Ballet is an excellent resource for athletes. As a dance form focused on grace of movement, ballet has many things to offer athletes. Body consciousness, posture, coordination, and flexibility are all things an athlete can benefit from with the inclusion of ballet in their routine,” related Chris Shavers, who has been a soccer coach-mentor with CUYS for over five years.

Widener student Julia Muratore looks forward to helping out again at future ballet lessons, noting, “[My classmate] Brynn and I had a great time participating with the kids and families!” 

CUYS looks forward to building further connections with the local college community.

Programs that bring soccer-playing youth to campus are inspired and supported by Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association’s “See It, Be It” initiative. This project encourages its soccer clubs, especially those serving youth who live in under-resourced communities. to collaborate with local colleges and university programs to inspire, motivate, and support players’ development in the game and in life.