New Jersey Youth Soccer recently launched its Let's Play! Program in Freehold over the course of four weeks this summer. Each program session was held in the morning for an hour and a half and consisted of 30 youth players.

“Let's Play! gives tremendous opportunity to the kids participating in each of the sessions within the community-based program,” said Bree Cassidy, NJYS Grant Program Manager. “Soccer is the vehicle leading these sessions, but it is awesome to see the players within the program learn the importance of character-building and learning the importance of social and emotional skills.”

NJ Youth Soccer collaborated with Freehold Intermediate School and the 21st Century Program to introduce the Let’s Play! Program.

"The 21st Century Program gives students opportunities to grow, learn and gain skills for the future,” said Brooke Shaw, Project Director of 21st Century. “The Let's Play! Program will be beneficial to the Freehold Borough Middle School and soccer programs long-term. We are very excited to continue this program in the fall.”

On the final session week of the Let’s Play! Program in Freehold, NJYS partner JAG-ONE Physical Therapy came to lead a warmup and speak to the program’s youth players about topics that included health and wellness, injury prevention and the importance of stretching. Players learned soccer skills while also learning the characteristics of a team-based environment.

“I like that I get to play soccer,” said Alison, a youth participant. “I like that I get to practice more, and I like to tell my family and friends what I learned here.”

Eight student volunteers helped drive the program’s success week after week. They helped set-up the fields and assisted the players during the skills and game play. 

“I love volunteering here because I love sport,” said Cristian, a student volunteer. “I enjoy helping these kids improve their skills. Every time I see people happy, it makes me happy.”

The “Let’s Play!” Program will continue to take place in both Freehold and Newark locations during the fall over the course of six weeks in September and October. The Let’s Play! Program is focused on reducing negative behavior, improving mental health and well-being, and improving educational and academic achievement, all while growing excitement around the beautiful game of soccer.

To find out more information about New Jersey Youth Soccer or to contact us directly, please email [email protected]. Also make sure to follow us on social media: @NJYouthSoccer