Community Initiative Aims to Fill Summer Void
The Town of Bethel, New York, has announced a free summer soccer program designed for children between six and eleven years old, set to run on Saturdays from July 11 through August 27.
The initiative will be overseen by Carlos Matos Jr., a coach who holds a National Coaching License and brings four decades of training experience to the field. His background includes work with youth teams and a focus on developing both technical ability and teamwork.
Funding for the program comes from a grant provided by the local nonprofit Sullivan 180, which means there is no registration fee for participants. Families are asked to supply their own sneakers, shin guards, soccer socks and a personal towel.
The concept originated from a resident’s complaint about the lack of children’s programming in the community, prompting town officials to explore new recreational options. Town supervisor Daniel Sturm expressed optimism that the program would not only teach soccer skills but also foster social connections among the kids.
Sessions will be divided into two age groups — six to eight and eight to eleven — and will combine skill drills with scrimmage matches to give children practical playing time. Interested families can learn more by emailing bethelsoccerny@gmail.com.