The Montana Grizzlies soccer program returned to Columbia Falls this week for its third straight year of community outreach, hosting a youth camp and a series of exhibition matches that drew families from across the Flathead Valley.
Players from Missoula, many of them newcomers to the roster, spent two days teaching children aged five to fourteen the fundamentals of the game while also fielding questions about the upcoming season.
Head coach Stuart Gore, who took the helm only months ago, used the gatherings to stress the importance of connecting with local fans and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Community Engagement at the Forefront
Local soccer enthusiast Rexx Dziowgo, who grew up playing on the town’s modest fields, said he felt honored to watch the Grizzlies’ athletes pass on their knowledge to the youngsters.
Casey Wehunt, a longtime supporter of grassroots soccer initiatives, noted that events like this fill a critical gap for kids who might otherwise miss out on organized play.
Elizabeth Davidson, a promising collegiate player, expressed her own ambition to one day wear the Grizzlies jersey at a higher competitive level.
The schedule featured an opening match on Friday evening against Mount Royal University, followed by a Saturday showdown with Gonzaga University, each game drawing a lively crowd and showcasing the team’s fresh chemistry.
Beyond the scores, the events underscored a broader mission: to embed the program within the fabric of the region and to use sport as a conduit for community pride.