NAPLES, Fla. (WINK)—Dozens of local children took to the pitch at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex for a free soccer clinic made possible through a community partnership.
FC Naples, in only its second season, is already becoming a rallying point for the community. YMCA leaders say when FC Naples reached out about bringing children to one of its clinics, the answer was easy.
The YMCA kids got the chance to train with local professional players. There were plenty of goals, drills and laughs throughout the afternoon, but the biggest takeaway wasn’t soccer at all.
The YMCA helped bring children from some areas that may not normally get a chance like this. They also met a few role models along the way.
“We’ve been so blessed to live in Naples and grow our business here, and it’s not the most accessible place for the average person, but soccer should be an accessible thing for everybody,” said Michael Frank, co-founder of St. Tropez Home.