Hi! My name is Avery Izzo. I am from Wilbraham, Massachusetts. I am a rising junior at Deerfield and I am very passionate about mental and physical health. I am organizing and running a free soccer clinic this summer to inspire the next generation of female athletes. The vision for Inspire Clinics was born out of my love for the game of soccer, and a passion for helping those around me.
“Previous research from ‘Women In Sport’ finds that there are low participation rates for girls aged 5-18, with only 14% of girls aged between 10 and 13 years old meeting the recommended guidelines for physical activity.”
This statistic is heavily affected by the stigma of girls in sports. I plan to address this issue through a free 2-day soccer clinic for young girls in the Greater Springfield area. Young girls need mentors they can relate to in order to attract interest and engagement. Competitive games with peers will allow these girls a support network. There will be a fun, engaging, and empowering environment. Success for me looks like girls who walk away from the camp with a positive experience. I hope the clinic brings a source of inspiration for these girls in any way. Whether it’s to hone in on their skills, take part in another sport, or believe in their own ability. This, I envision, will inspire and increase young girls to participate in sports and become leaders in the world.
Who? Young girls ages 10-14 who have an interest in playing soccer at the next level
What? A soccer clinic run by the area’s top female soccer players. During the 2-day clinic, players will expand technical and tactical skills, learn from experienced athletes, and build on their confidence as young players.
Where? East Longmeadow High School Turf
When?
Monday, August 15 (9 am – 3 pm)
Tuesday, August 16 (9 am – 3 pm)
Why?
As the clinic is run by talented young female players that serve as role models, we hope these ladies become inspired to pursue athletics. Our ultimate goal is to encourage participation in sports and empower the next generation of leaders on and off the field.
Some of what the girls will gain from this experience:
• A free t-shirt
• New friends
• Soccer skills
• Female mentors in sport
More info and updates can be found on our Instagram. Give us a follow: @inspire_clinics
-Avery Izzo ’24