Empowering the Next Generation: Girls in Soccer Program a Resounding Success in Region B
The Girls in Soccer Pilot Program, a free, girls-only program designed for players ages U9 to U19, put together by Region D Commissioner East, Melissa Alford, has officially made it to it’s third region in Florida! Girls from across Region B gathered for an inspiring and impactful experience. Hosted at Clay County Soccer Club, the event focused not only on skill development but also on educating young athletes about body health, mental wellness, and nutrition—all essential components to a successful journey in soccer and life.
The day was filled with energy, education, and empowerment, featuring hands-on sessions and real conversations with professionals and former players. Former Florida State University Women’s Soccer standout Kirsten Britt returned to the program as a guest speaker, sharing her collegiate experience and answering questions from curious young athletes about the next steps in competitive soccer.
The holistic approach of the program stood out as one of its greatest strengths. Holly Clarke, a certified nutritionist, walked the girls through the importance of fueling their bodies with the right foods for performance and recovery. Mental preparation took center stage with Tyler Greene, who shared techniques from the world of sports psychology to help players build resilience and focus on and off the field.
In the strength and conditioning session, Jalese Callaway introduced the girls to proper stretching and training techniques tailored to the needs of growing athletes. Out on the pitch, Parker Betts and Mike Strickler led a high-energy coaching session, allowing the girls to apply what they learned in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude and hope for the event to return in the future. One parent shared, “Our girls loved every minute of the clinic and learned so much! This was an amazing gift… the time spent together learning how to keep themselves healthy, train and ready for the game they love was so wonderful!”
Another parent echoed the sentiment: “We were both incredibly impressed with how thoughtfully it was organized. She gained so much—from proper stretching and strength training to understanding the mental aspects of the game… This program was not only informative but truly inspiring.”
Clay County Soccer Club graciously hosted the event and provided a welcoming and enthusiastic environment for the players. The club’s support played a key role in the event’s success, offering a space where young girls could connect, learn, and grow as athletes and individuals.
The Girls in Soccer program is more than just a day on the field—it’s a movement to nurture the whole player and ensure that girls in our communities have the tools, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in soccer and beyond.
After successful events in Regions D, C, and B, the Girls in Soccer program will make its final stop in Region A on May 31, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this incredible experience—registration details coming soon!
We can’t wait to bring Girls in Soccer back again. Until then, thank you to every speaker, coach, volunteer, and family who helped make this program unforgettable.