LCC soccer camp brings local youth to Cougar fields
Between July 24 and July 28, more than 50 local children benefited from the final camp of the Lassen College Athletic Summer Kid’s Camp series, soccer.
Campers learned the importance of handling the ball, protecting the goal, shooting and passing while at camp. Photo by Ashley GroganThe children at camp were able to learn and better their soccer techniques as well as spend time with some of the athletes who will be playing on the LCC soccer field this fall.
The campers spent their camp days learning how to control, dribble and pass the ball via scrimmages, drills and discussion.
Curtis Mallery speeds to the ball during a scrimmage at soccer camp on July 26. Photo by Ashley GroganAccording to Lassen College’s head women’s soccer coach, Imaan Kerchgani, the camp was focused on ensuring the youth were comfortable with the ball. “That’s all they need at this age, comfort with the ball. Fun is the emphasis with this demographic.”
Most of the campers ranged in age between 6 years and 12 years. While some showed previous experience with the sport, others were first introduced to it at camp. Despite experience levels, though, the camp coaches and assistant coaches that teamwork was key to see improvement of each player’s performance.
By the middle of the week, Kerchgani commented, “I’ve already seen little glimpses of lessons learned, of soccer and communication and kindness.”
During scrimmages, the children were split into groups based on their age and were able to put their newly learned skills to the test.
Communication improved among the campers throughout the week and the unity seen among the children improved as a direct result.
With the opportunity to work with local youth, the 2017 soccer teams have already made a connection with many community members and hope to receive support during games to be held in the fall.
