WE ARE
BOXWOOD SOCCER
We know that there are lots of things that can bring people together, but we want to make sure that our program is more than just a soccer team—we want to bring something new to the community.
Our coaches and volunteers strive to build strong support systems with the players: Systems built on trust, respect, and dedication. Where we also expect the same from family members and players to commit to their teams, and attend each practice and game on time through the entire season.
THE BEGINNING OF
BOXWOOD SOCCER
The soccer team started with Greg Herring the founder of East Carver Heights CDC talking to Columbus Parks and Recreation about his desire to start a soccer team in a declining socioeconomic neighborhood. He received several recommendations. However, once he saw the Boxwood soccer field, there was no need to look any further. So, his next step was to find soccer players. Not familiar with the neighborhood, he did not have a recruitment plan, so he showed up at the soccer field and started kicking the ball around, and of course, eventually, the kids showed up.
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Soccer was new to the kids in the neighborhood, but Greg was blessed to have a team of volunteers willing to put in the hard work. The kids are grouped into five teams Lightning (U8), Thunder (U10), Storm (U12), Tsunamis (U14), and Hurricanes (U19). They are members of the Columbus Youth Soccer Association.
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The teams have definitely made a name for themselves in Columbus soccer. Soccer has opened doors for many of the players. Once they graduate from U14, many of them are invited to play on other teams. However, in August of 2023, we added U19 to our program with the hope to bring bigger and brighter opportunities to our players.
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Soccer has been a way to teach players social skills, keep them on track academically, and dream about the future.
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The Boxwood Soccer Club is a true force of nature!
MEET THE TEAMS
Storm, Thunder, Lightning, Tsunamis, and Hurricanes sound like weather advisory warnings. However, they are the names of the teams that represent the East Carver Heights neighborhood.
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