The Ashland University Men’s Soccer team fosters stars outside of their roster, the team hosts soccer camps for aspiring youth soccer players.
Many colleges across the country host soccer camps, and one closer to home is hosted at Ashland University’s very own Ferguson Field. The intent of these camps is said to help further the youths’ love of soccer in an educational manner.
“I think first and foremost we are seeking to use our expertise to pass along to younger people and put them into an educational environment that fosters the joy of sport and learning,” Head Men’s Soccer Coach Nick Roberts said. “All in an enjoyable manner.”
These camps not only benefit young soccer stars but also benefit Ashland University Athletics.
“Secondly, these camps that we primarily host on our campus will give young people a window to look at what we do here at Ashland and at the University,” Head Men’s Soccer Coach Roberts said. “That sets up the potential for future recruitment not just for athletics but for the University in general.”
These camps already have a history of bringing in future Ashland University Eagles.
“We have a number of athletes here today at AU they were initially identified through our various camps,” Head Men’s Soccer Coach Roberts said.
The experience these camps offer is beyond the field, it allows them to fully indulge in the culture of Ashland University.
“We will host over 500 high school athletes on campus this summer, most of whom will be staying on campus in the dorms, eating at Convo and walking our campus for 3-4 days at a time,” Head Men’s Soccer Coach Roberts said.
These campgoers also get the opportunity to be coached by men’s soccer players themselves, such as Goalkeeper Ty Bowden.
“I have been helping with the camps for the past three years,” Goalkeeper Bowden said. “I feel like these camps are a fun and great opportunity for both the players/campers and the staff.”
The players don’t work at these camps to necessarily fulfill a requirement to be on the men’s soccer team; likewise, they reap the benefits of it just as much as the campgoers themselves.
“I am always so excited to work these camps. Each camp is different in their own way, but all of them are just as fun to work,” Goalkeeper Bowden said. “All my experiences when working with the campers/players are amazing memories.”
Head Men’s Soccer Coach Roberts heads these camps, and they are offered to the public, with a variety of camps ranging from all ages.
Parents and youth can find more information regarding these camps at www.goashlandeagles.com and the official camp website is www.premiersoccercompany.com.
