The New York Red Bulls announced that the West Side Soccer League has become a "Student of the Game" partner for the 2008 season.
"We are proud to announce that the West Side Soccer League has become a Student of the Game partner for 2008," said Red Bulls Director of Sales and Fan Services Rich Searls. "For the past several years, the Student of the Game program has been one of our most successful initiatives. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the West Side Soccer League and providing them top notch resources to supplement their club's programs."
"We are proud and excited to partner with the Red Bulls again this year and to participate in the Student of the Game Program," said West Side Soccer League Commissioner Dana DiPrima. "Our club enjoyed three group nights at the Meadowlands watching quality soccer and celebrating the delight we all share in this beautiful game. The kids and coaches alike were thrilled with the rally tunnel and the chance to play on the field during halftime - not to mention the actual Red Bulls game.
The Student of the Game program, which is limited to just the first 25 clubs to be accepted, is designed to provide players, coaches and parents of youth soccer clubs in the tri-state area with a variety of resources that will help them learn, play, and teach the game. This program is dedicated to the development of the youth club on every level - from recreation to travel.
The recruitment and retention of volunteers remains a challenge for most youth soccer organizations, and the Student of the Game program provides clubs with various tools aimed at assisting in this area. 'Club Nights' at a Red Bulls match are one aspect of the program that gives youth players from each club the opportunity to watch a game live and learn from the professionals, while also providing parents an opportunity to meet each other in a social setting.
These 'Club Nights' also provide chances to interact with Red Bulls players and coaches in person through exclusive on-field opportunities and a pre-game and halftime locker room 'Chalk Talk'.
"The experience West Side Soccer League had with the Red Bulls was an important one: Not only did we get to hang out as a club, but we were delighted in seeing the game played at a professional level - a part of learning to love the game that complements playing it," DiPrima said. "When the kids see soccer like that, it enhances their interest, their drive and their dreams for the future of their game."
Through this partnership, a member of the Red Bulls coaching staff will travel to the team's training field to lead the club's coaches through a clinic and give them tips on game strategy and team tactics. The Red Bulls will assist the club with their fundraising efforts throughout the season and organize sportsmanship clinics designed by specialists to help create players who are successful both on and off the field.
Additionally, players, coaches and parents from the West Side Soccer League will be able to develop personal relationships with Red Bulls players through player appearances at their respective home fields.
For more information on the Student of the Game program, please contact the New York Red Bulls at 1-877-RBSOCCER.
