The excitement of the FIFA World Cup extended far beyond the action on the field for dozens of young soccer players in Atlanta, thanks to a partnership between Soccer in the Streets and the Quaker Player Escort Program.
Coach Sergio, who works with Soccer in the Streets and is also the father of children participating in the program, joined Kevin & Taylor on the "Kevin & Taylor Feel Good Morning Show" to discuss the unforgettable experience and the impact the sport continues to have on young people across metro Atlanta.
The Quaker Player Escort Program gave children the opportunity to walk onto the field alongside some of the world’s biggest soccer stars before World Cup matches. For many participants, the moment created memories that will last a lifetime.
Kevin & Tayor asked about emotional reaction viewers experienced after seeing a young fan in Atlanta holding hands with his favorite England player before a match. Sergio said the excitement was evident among every child who took part.
“From my perspective, it was just amazing,” Sergio said. “We look up on the screen and sure enough, I mean, all of them had this smile ear to ear.”
Sergio said the atmosphere inside the stadium only added to the significance of the event. Even as someone deeply involved in the sport, he admitted the experience was overwhelming.
“I was,” Sergio said when asked whether he became emotional. “I mean, just the way that the stadium was in, quite spectacular, honestly.”
Soccer in the Streets has spent years working to make the sport accessible to children from a variety of backgrounds throughout the Atlanta area. The nonprofit organization provides opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills while also building confidence, discipline and community connections.
With Atlanta serving as one of the host cities for the World Cup, Sergio said he hopes the tournament’s visibility will inspire more young people to get involved in soccer programs.
“Well, I really hope so,” Sergio said. “And I hope that it gets more kids involved in soccer in general. Soccer in the Streets really allows for all different backgrounds to really enjoy and then get that opportunity to play soccer.”
During the interview, Sergio shared the story of Brianna, one of the organization’s participants who joined the program at a young age. He described her as outgoing and energetic, but noted how her focus and determination have grown over the years.
According to Sergio, youth soccer programs offer children more than athletic training. The lessons learned on the field often translate into other aspects of life, helping participants develop goals and a stronger sense of purpose.
To listen to the full interview, CLICK HERE.
