GRPS Adding Soccer to Elementary School Programs

The Grand Rapids Public Schools continue to grow and improve programs.  They want to make sure that each and every student has the most complete experience and education available today.

To that end, the Athletics Department just announced a new addition to their elementary sports program. Beginning this fall, students in 3^rd through 5^th grade will be able to participate in a developmental soccer program aimed at providing an opportunity for students to be introduced to the skills of the game of soccer. This will provide students with a new opportunity to stay physically fit while building confidence, teamwork, and soccer skills through a fun sport environment.

To achieve these goals, the program has been built to maximize the number of touches each player has on the ball. Every player will have a chance, not just the "good" ones.   Each player will have the maximum chance for skill growth and success.

Also, GRPS has committed to having more soccer balls at practice and a very low player to coach ratio of no more than 12 to 1. In addition to the number of balls and the low coach to player ratio, GRPS has chosen a specific set of game formats. Each Saturday, teams of four will play several 5 minute games on small fields allowing for maximum opportunities for each player to play. Games will be played in multiple formats, which have been specifically designed to test the players in different ways.

Practice begins this week, the week of September 17^th. The first games will be played on September 29^th. The season ends November 3^rd.

However, they can't do it without your help.  GRPS relies heavily on a volunteer staff, which will be trained to be highly qualified to coach the students. If you have any experience playing or coaching soccer and are willing to learn and teach the world class methods this program upholds, please visit the GRPS athletics web page at www.grps.org/athletics to register as a volunteer.

For more information visit  www.grps.org/athletics or contact athletics@grps.org or 616.819.2010.