The soccer4children clinic boasts the impressive coaching credentials, and experience in the game, of six exceptionally talented volunteers. Their main role is to assist the head coach, Khulu Nsibanyoni in sharpening the footballing skills of the youngsters attending the camp.
Taking it all in
One of the volunteers who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, is Patrick Howard. He is a native of Atlanta in the United States, and has been an absolute blessing to this initiative.
Patrick Howard suited up for linesman duty
Born in Germany to American parents, and moving back to the States at the age of ten, he has an unmatched passion for soccer and children. His German birth and formative schooling years in that country resulted in him being bitten by the soccer bug very early on in his life.
He is currently involved in the children’s ministry back home, also on a completely voluntary basis, and admits to having been very excited at the prospect of being involved with soccer4children, as it “gave him the opportunity to combine both my passions, which is working with children and being involved in the game.”
To everyone who has a hand in realizing the vision which is soccer 4 children, Patrick personifies servanthood. Whether assisting with the training, volunteering his services as a referee, participating in the life skills aspect of the soccer camp, or setting up equipment, he always bears himself with humility, and takes time out to chat with the children.
The language barrier has at times proven a bit difficult to bridge, but the camp would not be complete without Patrick volunteering his services each time the need arises.
When asked where he sees the dream leading, Patrick initially expressed his concerns about keeping the “momentum going once the clinic ended,” but was “inspired by the brilliant vote of confidence from SAFA.” His views have altered somewhat, and he now sees the lasting legacy which could be left for the children, with the right backing and support.
Eyes fixed steadily on realising the dream
We thank Patrick profusely for his generous spirit, and the time he has given to aid with the successful running of the camp, bearing in mind that he has left his family for a 10 day period to travel halfway across the world in order to lend his skills and amiable personality to this initiative.
Patrick has been updating his friends in Atlanta about his experiences in South Africa via a group on facebook, where he shares his views about the soccer 4 children clinic. To visit his blog, please copy and paste the link below into your browser :
http://www.facebook.com/#!/home.php?sk=group_133141156742587&ap=1
To get more information about soccer4children, or to donate your time, equipment or funds, please click here
