Project Soccer
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Many countries closed public schools as part of a collective effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, leaving many parents to juggle their jobs and the role of a teacher. Keeping children focused yet motivated to study while providing enough activities is no easy task. This additional family time could be an opportunity to teach children life skills they don't learn in school but only in adulthood.
This inspired Ole Soccer Academy to launch PROJECT SOCCER to help parents educate children on the principles of good health.
"No one is going to take care of us other than ourselves. So each of us is responsible for taking control of our health."
- Marcos Matos, Director of Ole Soccer Academy.
ABOUT OLE SOCCER ACADEMY
Soccer is often taught only as a simple game in Western countries. This minimizes the historical importance of the sport, leaving only interest in results and financial benefits. The idea of formal coaching has focused on the coach's progress instead of developing the players' techniques.
We recognize the need to encourage players to experience soccer differently, to enjoy the thrill of the sport itself rather than stressing the need for a trophy, whether or not the skills have been developed. We believe teaching soccer is not only based on developing technical-tactical elements but also on developing the control skills of the individual. Knowledge of the rules and history of the sport plays an important role and teaches them to adapt to their style. We restore values that stress group unity and mutual respect over individuality and autonomy. Based on this philosophy, OLE SOCCER ACADEMY started in 2013 to bring a different soccer concept to children. We will focus on instilling a genuine love for the sport so they have fun while playing alongside their teammates. We believe soccer is meant for everyone to enjoy. Everyone is welcome.
WHAT IS S.O.C.C.E.R. ?
S.O.C.C.E.R. is a program designed to use soccer technical skills & and activities and science-based health information to fight against childhood obesity and chronic diseases affecting children. Soccer is the fastest-growing sport in America and is very easy to play.
As a soccer coach for almost 25 years, I know how much pleasure children can have in soccer without the desire to jump to a competitive level. I saw the food parents were feeding their kids before, during, and after games and practices and recognized how it affected their performance. The acronym S.O.C.C.E.R. is detailed below. These six areas work together to make children healthier and perform to their utmost potential in school, life, and soccer.
Sleep is just as crucial to a child as eating healthy and exercising. Sleep helps support their mental and physical development. Even in infancy, while children sleep, their brains work and grow while they rest.
Optimistic people think the best possible thing will happen and hope for it even if it's not likely. Thus, optimism helps to build confidence.
Creativity Like an artist, anyone can be creative in what they are doing. For example, creativity helps make designing healthy food recipes a fun activity.
Cool is a feeling, a mindset, a way of being and acting. Cool is a state of being and working that attracts and emits positive energy.
Eating better is about eating healthy food every day. The benefits are beyond calculation, especially for children.
Relax. Playing soccer and living without stress is fun and enjoyable.
PROJECT MISSION
To fight against childhood obesity and chronic diseases using soccer and science-based health information as a tool.
STRUCTURE
Lectures, classroom sessions, and outside activities with parents and children. The daily activity would be physical practice (60 minutes) and the health lesson ( 30min), in which parents and children should participate together. After signing up, families will meet at the location pre-determined for both activities according to the Ole Soccer Academy schedule.
LENGTH OF THE PROGRAM
Flexible based on the group goals and financial support.
REGISTRATION
On our website www.olesocceracademy.pro
CURRICULUM
Nutrition - Importance
What is a Healthy Breakfast for kids and adults (what makes it healthy, how to make it taste good, so the kids want it)
Better snack options for kids
Sugar - Why its a problem
Good and bad carbs
Making sugar and deserts a special treat, not a daily activity
Getting kids involved in the kitchen
The benefits of sleep
The benefits of exercise
How to make a healthy school lunch
Making dinner a healthy meal that everyone likes
Water - importance
Knowing how much is too much - Portion control
Whole foods vs. processed foods
How to make good decisions when eating out or on the go
Kids' nutritional needs vs. adults
Soccer activities - fundamentals of soccer, games, small tournaments, and fun activities.