Meredith Waropay, NJ Youth Soccer
Isabella Reibarkh is a 2023 New Jersey Youth Soccer Goal of the Year Powered by the New York Red Bulls recipient whose exemplary play on the field is only matched by her selfless work in the community off the pitch. In addition to being a dedicated soccer player herself, Isabella has devoted time towards helping others have opportunities to enjoy the game as well.
Currently, Isabella plays for Cedar Stars Girls Academy in Monmouth County, New Jersey. Additionally, she is a member of the NJ14 International Team and New Jersey Olympic Development Program (ODP).
Off the field, Isabella has been a Girl Scout since first grade, managing the challenge of balancing her time between Girl Scouts and training competitively for soccer. For her Girl Scout Silver Award Project, Isabella is raising awareness about New Jersey Youth Soccer’s TOPSoccer Program, an initiative that provides opportunities for children with disabilities to enjoy the game of soccer. As a TOPSoccer volunteer, Isabella was inspired to get more people involved in the program.
“Being a TOPSoccer Buddy taught me that everyone can enjoy playing soccer, regardless of their physical ability,” said Isabella. “I have been paired up with my buddy Gavin for two years now, and seeing his face light up when he sees me brings me so much joy. Every kid that comes to the sessions looks so happy.”
Isabella has helped children get the equipment needed to participate in TOPSoccer and other soccer programs. Over the past year, she has also run a soccer gear drive. Further, she has donated items like cleats, shin guards, uniforms and soccer balls to local programs. In the past month, she has organized campaigns to collect donations for the Boys and Girls Club of Newark and Soccer Goals for Kids.
This past June, Isabella also ran a soccer clinic for kids of all ages in her hometown of Cranford, New Jersey. At the clinic, she promoted TOPSoccer to participants, encouraging them to take part as volunteers and players.
“Some of my teammates from the township soccer team helped me out with the clinic, which was a great way to share the joy of playing soccer with others,” Isabella reflected.
As part of her initiative, Isabella created a short PSA video about TOPSoccer, which can be found on the Girl Scouts of Cranford website. In the fall, Isabella will be attending Cranford High School. She is determined to continue succeeding as a Girl Scout and soccer player while in high school.
“My goal is to continue to grow as a soccer player and to play for Cranford High School,” Isabella stated. “I am also looking forward to playing for Cedar Stars Academy, and I hope to make NJ ODP and NJ14 International again next year. I will definitely continue to volunteer as a TOPSoccer Buddy in Cranford and plan on recruiting some of my teammates to volunteer for the TOPSoccer Program in their communities.”
Isabella Reibarkh continues to showcase an unwavering dedication to both soccer and community service. As she transitions to high school, her achievements on the soccer field, along with her impactful volunteer work off the field, set a strong foundation for her future where she will certainly inspire others through her actions and leadership.
