Did you know that each year soccer experts from other countries leave behind their families and come to live with us in Harvard? The Harvard Soccer Club, which runs the town soccer programs, has drawn on the expertise of European coaches for the past several years in order to further develop its in-town programs for ages five and up. Generally in their 20s, these coaches take up residence in the United States for six to 12 months each year to coach children in a sport that is a national pastime in their home countries. Most have played soccer at the university, semi-professional, or club levels and can use their expertise to teach children and their in-town (parent) coaches. This program, run by Challenger Sports, an international coaching organization, enhances everyone’s skills, strategy, and method of play.
This past fall, Tom Wiffen and Niamh (pronounced “Neeve”) Quilligan, from England and Ireland respectively, came to Harvard to work with the Harvard Soccer Club town program. Not only do they teach and work during the fall and spring seasons, but they also manage the soccer camps held during school vacation breaks. They work with other towns as well, frequently traveling during the week to coach programs elsewhere in Massachusetts and in other states.
The coaches leave their families so that they can gain an understanding of different cultures, meet a variety of people, and experience America. Some even return to the communities where they have lived during prior seasons. “I really like to see how the kids have developed,” observes Tom Wiffen, who has coached in Harvard for several seasons and has participated in the program’s development. “Host families” in town provide room and board from week to week, which allows the coaches to experience American hospitality and get to know our children while also allowing the children to learn about other cultures.
The in-town soccer program has provided children an opportunity to learn, play, make friendships, and exercise in a positive, outdoor setting. Although the fall season is over, look for the Challenger coaches next spring and welcome them into our community as they continue to teach and encourage our children to develop their love of this international game. The World Cup is only seven months away. Cheers!
Robin Foley
West Bare Hill Road
