Soccer has long been recognized for its ability to bring people together, whether individuals or entire nations. For the Richmond Rebels, soccer represents an opportunity to be with friends, with family, at home.Community involvement is one of the cornerstones of the Richmond Kickers organization, so when the club became aware of a local homeless squad with big aspirations, it jumped at the opportunity to help in any way possible. Working in conjunction with Street Soccer USA, The Daily Planet and a host of other volunteers, the Richmond Kickers have provided training gear and coaching assistance to the Richmond Rebels homeless soccer team since early June.
Former Kickers star Rob Ukrop and assistant coach Jesse Myers have been heavily involved in the development of the team, meeting with the squad twice a week for hour-long training sessions.
“It is a wonderful program designed to give the players an opportunity to get into regular training habits that will improve fitness and provide them the chance to be part of a team that represents our community,” Ukrop said.
“It’s great to be able to reach out to the community and offer what help we can,” Myers added.
In addition to the training sessions and equipment, the Kickers have provided the Rebels with a first-class ride in the pro team's sleeper bus as they travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in the fourth annual Street Soccer USA Cup.
The Street Soccer USA Cup, which will take place from July 31st to August 2nd, brings together homeless squads from 16 cities throughout the nation and pits them against each other in a 4-on-4 tournament. The top 8 players throughout the tournament will be selected for the US homeless national team and will take part in the Homeless World Cup in Milan, Italy this September.
Regardless of their performances in the Street Soccer USA Cup, the Rebels can take comfort in the community of support awaiting their return to Richmond. With the assistance provided by the Kickers and the numerous other organizations that have volunteered their time and efforts, these homeless men have experienced the uniting spirit of soccer and found their place in the community.
The Kickers will be among the first to welcome them home.
To follow the Rebels and other teams in the Street Soccer USA Cup, follow the live stream here.
