They’ve got more balls than they expected – thanks to the generosity of some local soccer clubs.
Burnaby MoreSports, which provides free after-school sports programs for children in the community, put out a call recently seeking soccer balls to help in a program that reaches hundreds of children.
MoreSports program coordinator Maria Bamba said what was an urgent need became a fun surplus as the Burnaby Girls Soccer Club and South Burnaby Metro Club responded to the donation request of used balls and equipment for the program.
“There were tonnes (of balls), more than we expected,” said Bamba. “We’re so grateful and really appreciate their support.”
Currently offering a basketball program in southeast Burnaby community schools, MoreSports continues to meet the demand of offering free after-school sports to young children.
“It’s a free program for Burnaby kids, and our focus is to ensure children who may not normally get to participate in sports, whether due to economic status or transportation barriers, a chance to play and learn the skills that sports teach us,” said Bamba.
The minor clubs also donated numerous jerseys to the program.
The soccer balls will be used when the indoor soccer season starts in the spring, with the extra balls being provided free to the kids following the season-ending Soccer Festival.
“The sports are offered in a non-competitive environment, with a focus on teaching life skills, like working together, conflict development and exercise.”
MoreSports, in its seventh year, relies upon donations,
fundraising and grants to provide free sports experiences for local kids.
“Sports is universal language. We have so many new families with children from all over the world, who may not speak English. When you hand them a soccer ball, they know what to do.”
For more information on Burnaby MoreSports, visit www.burnabymoresports.ca.
