The New York Red Bulls announced that Hazlet United Soccer Association has become a "Student of the Game" partner for the 2008 season.
"We are proud to announce that Hazlet United 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 Hazlet United and providing them top notch resources to supplement their club's programs."
"We have a long history with the Red Bulls which dates back to the inaugural game," said Fred Ligouri, First Vice President of Recreation for Hazlet United. "The organization has always been very professional and has always treated us as partners. We have participated in many events which included playing on the field, high five tunnel, and player autograph sessions. These were all events that the children will cherish forever."
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'.
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.
"This year, we look forward to every aspect of the Student of the Game program," Ligouri said. "We are excited about the Chalk Talk for our coaches, the club night on and off the field in June, as well as a player appearance at our team picnic. We are equally excited to have our coaches participate in a coached training session.
Additionally, players, coaches and parents from Hazlet United 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.
