Markham, Ontario - It was a gorgeous morning in May at Boxwood Public School when Colts Soccer came to run a soccer clinic for some of the kids in grades 5 through 8. The clinic is part of the intermural recreation program called '4 the House"; led by Centennial Colts Women's Basketball Head Coach Naomi Mullings, who addition to her coaching duties with the Colts, works at the Markham primary school. In addition to soccer, the kids participate in Ultimate Frisbee, Ball Hockey, 3on3 Fiba basketball, and Flag Football.
The clinic started with a fun warm-up session led by Women's Soccer captain Emily Cullen and Men's Soccer captain Khristos Zim, energizing everyone. Afterwards, Men's Soccer Head Coach David Lattavo, and Rich Hirst, the Women's Soccer Head Coach, came in to provide the kids with a fun game plan on what they would be learning that day.
The kids were split into groups and taken through 5 stations, doing drills to improve their ball handling, dribbling, and shooting skills. The Colts players and coaches were incredibly kind, patient, and encouraging, cheering on the young scholars as they practiced their moves.
"It's always great to get out into the community and spread the beautiful game we love," said Men's Soccer Head Coach David Lattavo. "As a father and youth coach, it's always a pleasure to share soccer with the next generation, who knows, maybe some of them may end up being Colts one day," he continues.
This was the first event this spring that the Colts Varsity program participated in a community event. Before the pandemic, Colts Athletics launched the Colts Cares and Jr. Colts' initiatives. Colts Cares is a sidearm of Colts Athletics, developed by Varsity Volleyball player and Alumni Kadeisha Powell. The project is a vehicle for Colts Student-Athletes to get community involvement through many different opportunities.
"I'm fortunate to have thoughtful colleagues like Rich and David. We all do our best to support the other coaches and their teams during the season, and it means a lot to receive the same support in the off-season. We don't always have time to chat during the season, so I appreciate them taking the time out of their busy schedules to lend a helping hand. Coach Naomi explains.
For the Colts, going back to school is nothing new, but getting an opportunity to help foster the love of soccer for the next class is always fulfilling and exciting. It's one of the easiest ways to consistently give back to the community and make a positive lasting impact on many lives.
"I think David and I agree that this type of event should become an annual affair," says Rich Hirst, Women's Soccer Head Coach.
Questions or Comments? Contact Sports Information and Marketing Officer, Ryan Miller at rmiller@Centennialcollege.ca