Partnership provides soccer scholarships

"Soccer should not be a sport that you can't play because you can't afford it," said Jason Myer, president of the Pequea Valley Youth Soccer Association (PVYSA). "There are not tons of pads or equipment, just cleats and shin guards."

To make it possible for more Pequea Valley School District (PVSD) youth to take part in the league, which provides play for young people from ages 4 to 18, PVYSA teamed up with The Factory Ministries to award scholarships.

Although the club works to keep registration fees reasonable, Myer and board members are aware that some families - especially those who have multiple children who wish to participate - might benefit from some help. "The Factory provides a sheet with a recommendation for a scholarship," explained Myer, who added that once a Factory staff member has completed an evaluation, he or she can also introduce the family to other resources that might be beneficial.

PVYSA community relations coordinator Jon Lorio noted that working with The Factory puts the family's financial information in the hands of experienced social workers. This is important in a community where, according to Adam Nagle, executive director of The Factory, the percentage of free and reduced-cost lunches is more than 60%.

PVYSA runs both spring and fall season programs. "Soccer is 12 months (a year)," joked Myer, who added that the spring program starts after Easter and the fall program after Labor Day. Parents who wish to register their children may visit http://www.pvysa.com. Registration for the upcoming spring season is open until Saturday, Feb. 15. Those who register after that date may do so until Friday, Feb. 28, by paying a late fee. PVYSA participants are divided into groups of 4- and 5-year-olds, 6- to 8-year-olds, 12- to 14-year-olds, and 15- to 18-year-olds. Intramural and travel programs are offered for appropriate age groups. The league, which practices primarily at the Salisbury Township Park in Gap, averages a total of more than 200 participants per session. According to Lorio, that number varies by season. The number of scholarships given out runs a dozen or more per season.

To fund scholarships, the program holds fundraisers and accepts donations from individuals and businesses. Myer said the PVYSA now has a fundraising coordinator and that board members hope to appeal to area residents to help address the growing need for scholarships.

Lorio pointed out that the league often offers a child's first coaching contact. "The kids appreciate the program," he said, noting that the volunteer coaches endeavor to provide both enjoyment and structure to participants while teaching soccer skills. "The league emphasizes fun," he stated, adding that the culture is inclusive and welcoming to both players and volunteers. "It's a close-knit community," he said.

Looking ahead, Myer hopes the organization can continue to secure the funds and volunteers to grow the program and meet the scholarship need, and he is grateful to The Factory for the part it plays. "(Working with The Factory) gives us the confidence to give out the scholarships, and it also connects (families) with The Factory, which can connect them with resources," he said. "(The need for scholarships) is growing each season, so we know we need to keep doing it."

Readers who have questions may contact PVYSA through the aforementioned website.