NEWS RELEASE
GUELPH POLICE SERVICE
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The 2018 Guelph Kickz Soccer program has come to a conclusion. This was the 11th year of Kickz. The 16-week soccer program is run, free of charge, for the youth of the Shelldale Family Gateway Neighbourhood. Shelldale serves many families that are new to Canada as well as many residents facing greater socioeconomic challenges.
Kickz relies on members of the Guelph Police Service who volunteer their time to assist make a difference in the lives of these youth. Kickz also relies on Shelldale Family Gateway, Guelph Soccer Club, the Guelph Police Service and Guelph Wellington Immigrant Services. This year Canadian Tire Jumpstart provided the financial support which is greatly appreciated and essential to the program.
A special Kickz volunteer this year was Clara Goody, aged 12 years. This was Clara’s second year assisting with the program. Clara is always very enthusiastic and demonstrated a maturity beyond her years in the mentoring she provided the Shelldale youth. Shayne Campbell, head coach of the University of Guelph Women’s team and the coach of Guelph Gryphons Women’s Provincial Elite team heard of Clara’s commitment to Kickz and wanted to recognize her contributions in helping others through the “beautiful game.”
On June 5 Clara was invited to attend the Guelph Gryphons Women’s Provincial Elite team training session. Clara was also presented a Gryphon training jersey by U of G’s women’s team captain, Victoria Hinchliffe, who is also a regular Kickz volunteer. Clara loved the session and really enjoyed getting up close to all the players.
“Clara is a very deserving young player that possesses strong leadership skills and a genuine passion to help others. Coach Shayne and his team recognize the impressive commitment Clara has demonstrated in working with the youths and rewarded what they value as a positive, selfless attitude this 12 year old has given to the Kickz soccer program.” - Patrick Milligan, Kickz Soccer
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