On Sunday, March 24^th and Saturday, April 6th, Northeast Opportunities for Wellness, Inc. (NOW) partnered with Challenger Sports from Warwick RI to offer two Free Soccer clinics. Over 60 children, beginning at age 3 and up to age 13 participated in the combined clinics, learning a variety of skills in the sport of soccer. The clinics were part of a series of free events hosted by NOW designed to introduce sports and wellness activities to children in the 10-town area of Northeast Connecticut.

The first clinic was offered in Thompson on March 24^th.  The second clinic on April 6^th was offered at Plainfield High School.  The concept behind the Soccer Clinics was to introduce proper form and technique to children interested in learning about and playing soccer.  NOW is grateful to Challenger Sports for their willingness to volunteer two weekends in the spirit of inspiring future athletes. The student athletes that volunteered to help were fantastic role models for the kids that came out to the clinic and they helped make the day fun.

A signature element of the clinic is additional skill stations run by NOW staff, focused on nutrition and fitness.  NOW Program Coordinator Lindsay Lussier led participants through an agility obstacle course station, and NOW staff Tayler Shea and Alexandra Billings taught children the importance of a balanced diet with the NOW “My Plate” nutrition station. Children were also offered a healthy snack of clementines or raisins during the nutrition station

Throughout the year, NOW hosts several clinics focused on such sports as, soccer, football, cheerleading, lacrosse, hockey, and basketball