By Stacy Case
When several thousand area youths come together to comprise a local sports program, one thing comes to mind…. It’s soccer season!
And that’s an understatement, as soccer attracts more players than any of the other local recreational sports programs.
The beautifully manicured fields and well-maintained parks throughout both Coral Springs and Parkland make it extremely conducive to play soccer around here year after year, so it comes as no surprise when these hometown programs have so many returning players every season.
The leagues are pretty much a second home for many, many young soccer players who are either looking to just play the game and get some great exercise while being instructed under the tutelage of the dedicated coaches, or have that long term goal of playing the game for quite some time.
And time seems to reveal all…..
The Coral Springs Youth Soccer Club, was established in 1972 while the Parkland Soccer Club became a league 28 years ago. Over the years, they’ve had an impressive amount of involvement. From players to coaches to board members, these leagues have attracted many area residents over the decades.
“We rely on volunteers to keep our league going; they’re the heart of our program,” says Kevin Wallington, president of CSYS, who has been on the Board of Directors for more than 10 years. “We do a lot of behind-the-scenes work that people don’t know about, and it’s the consistency over the years that has kept our league so successful.”
The Coral Springs games are held at Mullins Park whereas Parkland’s games are played at Pine Trails Park. Both of the programs offer play for boys and girls in various age groups — from about Under 6 to about Under 19.
Games get underway in mid Fall and conclude in the late part of Winter/early part of the Spring, depending on the league, age/division and playoffs.
And for quite a few of the leagues’ volunteers, there is no ‘off season,’ as they work year round on paperwork, registration preparation, player placement, etc.
“I love to hear toward the end of a season that kids already say they want to come back next year,” adds Kevin. “It’s great to hear that the coaches’ and other volunteers’ efforts are appreciated.”
