Vine City, two miles west of Downtown Atlanta, has long been a part of Soccer in the Streets due to its proximity to Mercedes Benz Stadium, home of Atlanta United. We've brought in kids from the local areas to participate in a diverse soccer program. Vine City Youth Program has become a second home for many young players, including children of various ethnicities and ages.
This particular curriculum has flourished in the last year, with an influx of children enrolling. In previous years, the program had 15-20 children, but now it has 60.
One in particular that has been around for years is Angelica, a U16 girls program participant. She has been a part of the program since she was four years old.
Vine City Player, Angelica defending player during practice
“I have really enjoyed my time with this program and all that it has to offer,” said Angelica. “I have made many friends within the program and am thankful to have the opportunity to get outside and play in a safe environment.”
As the program has grown, it has relocated from Vine City Park to JFK Park, where they can play on a turf field with plenty of room.
“This field has become my second home and the coaches have become role models,” said Angelica. “I currently play with a co-ed team but that doesn’t stop me from playing with the guys. I’ve adapted and built a great skill set playing against them.”
The field serves as a haven not only for the players but also for the coaches. They've made a lot of progress over the years in terms of leading and directing young players in the right direction.
Vine City Program Manager, Sean Irving, has seen just that as he has led this program for two years now.
“Enthusiasm for our program has grown a lot in the last few seasons. We had just set a registration record before the pandemic hit. Our momentum got derailed a bit during quarantine but now we are back on track. Our core group has grown a lot. I can see the foundation of a lasting community club starting to solidify,” said Irving.
Coach Irving with players at practice
“The rise in numbers has not really affected their attitudes. Strong participation makes it easier for me to recruit new players and retain old ones. However, We still are working through familiar issues with our players. Sportsmanship, self-control, focus, and self-discipline are our biggest challenges.”
Irving has pushed his players to adapt and develop. The goal is to develop young community leaders who can serve as role models for children of all ages.
“We are working to build and promote a strong soccer culture around the whole westside. I envision marrying soccer culture with Atlanta sports culture to help grow the sport. Imagine team parades on Marta, ATL-centric team chants & songs, community pride soccer gear, and drumline battles at halftime!” Irving continues, “I also want to start organizing community youth tailgate parties for Atlanta United and other pro soccer matches. If we can create a strong culture around the sport we can eventually compete with football & basketball.”
This program will skyrocket in success. Irving and the other coaches will keep working hard to keep the players involved in soccer activities, which will keep their minds off the streets and help them grow their character.
