Dynamo Launches Soccer for Success Program in HISD
New program to benefit students at 11 middle and four elementary schools
The Houston Dynamo launched Soccer for Success, a new after-school program that teaches the fundamentals of soccer, builds life skills, and promotes a healthy lifestyle, during a press conference held on October 20, 2009, at HISD’s John McReynolds Middle School.
The collaborative effort between the Dynamo, HISD, the Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD), and the U.S. Soccer Foundation offers elementary- and middle-school students in grades 3 through 8 the opportunity to take part in a free, organized after-school soccer program at no charge. Soccer for Success, which targets at-risk Hispanic and African-American children, aims to reach 1,600 students during its initial two-year cycle.
“The Soccer for Success program is following the lead of other Houston companies that have invested substantial sums of money in many of the area elementary and middle schools,” said Dynamo President and General Manager Oliver Luck. “In particular, we have modeled our program on the work that Taxis Fiesta/Yellow Cab has been doing for many years with a number of urban and suburban schools, such as the establishment of the first school-based soccer teams for boys and girls for all the Spring Branch ISD middle schools. Without the financial support of Taxis Fiesta/Yellow Cab, these middle-school kids would not have had the benefit of playing organized soccer in a safe and nurturing environment with quality coaching. Many of these companies have had long-lasting relationships with the local school districts, and we are pleased to join this very generous and community-minded group of Houston companies.”
Over an eight-week period, trained HPARD staff members will facilitate skills development through practices and games, and corporate sponsors will provide homework helpers, guest speakers (topics to include goal-setting, career paths, staying in school), and volunteer coaches/mentors. Students will have the opportunity to earn rewards throughout the program, as their participation and progress is measured.
“I’m excited to be a part of such a great program,” said Dynamo midfielder Corey Ashe. “I never had an opportunity like this when I was younger, and I feel it provides an opportunity for kids to build confidence at a young age by being active through soccer.”
Soccer for Success is being implemented in 11 HISD middle schools (Burbank, Fonville, Henry, Hogg, Holland, Key, Marshall, McReynolds, and Williams) and four elementary schools (Bruce, Nat. Q. Henderson, Scott, and Thompson). For more information, contact Lori Stutt at 713-276-7574 or lstutt@houstondynamo.com.
The Houston Dynamo is a Major League Soccer franchise that has won two cup championships in its first three seasons and represented the United States in four consecutive regional championships.