The British are coming. The British are coming. Rather, they came, they coached and then quietly rolled out of town.
Two weeks ago, a trio of young British soccer coaches led Sonoma Valley youth through a series of techniques, tactics and tournaments as the Challenger Soccer Camp returned to the Field of Dreams. The camp is designed to introduce the youngest of players to the game of soccer while helping older participants improve their playing skills.
Around 40 campers ranging in age from three to 12 years old (although the camp can accommodate campers up to age 16) converged on the field each morning, water bottles in hand and soccer balls at foot to learn the finer points of the game.
For some, the experience was completely new. Four-year-old Matt Jordan was rendered shyly speechless when asked what he liked about camp. Prompted by his mom, being with friends and kicking the ball ranked high on the list.
With the older set, the camp allowed an improvement in skills that will prove invaluable during the upcoming season. Paloma Palmer, 12, liked meeting new players and the bonding that comes with being part of a team.
Annika Blanusa, 7, said she “felt good about scoring points for her team.”
Participants score points throughout the camp for playing by the rules. Those rules include Challenger Sports’ credos of respect, responsibility, integrity, leadership and sportsmanship and these aspects are stressed and promoted in all aspects of the camp.
For their part, the three coaches had a great time getting to know the group of campers and being introduced to the Valley of the Moon.
“Sonoma was very friendly and a beautiful town,” said Sam Jones. Dan Roberts echoed that sentiment and added he especially loved the Farmers Market and exploring the town.
To keep the camp fun, the coaches have scores of tricks up their sleeves. This year, campers were asked to choose a country for their team and create a representative flag. Camper Andy Purdom combined China and Canada to make a new country called “Chinada” and his flag incorporated both lands. Other years, the campers have been tasked with brewing their own sports drinks at home. The coaches then sample each and, despite some stomach upset, proclaim a winner. For this camp, there was the much anticipated final day’s dress up contest where campers are asked to bring silly items of clothing which the coaches then don, to the absolute delight of the campers and amusement of parents.
The Challenger Sports’ Camps are run all over Northern California and Nevada during the summer months using Sacramento as their home base. Some 60 coaches rotate through the various towns and cities running and teaching at the camps. Coaches are hand selected by Challenger’s United Kingdom’s based staff from thousands of potential candidates. All coaches are licensed and trained, love the game of soccer and teaching children as well.
Coaches stay with host families during the week-long camp, a unique experience for both parties as they learn about each other, their different cultures and, of course, soccer.
To learn more about next year’s camp, go to www.challengersports.com
