October 5, 2003

Salt Lake Tribune Article:
SOCCER BRIDGES UTAH'S SOCIAL DIVIDES

Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson may not agree often with President George W. Bush, but there is some common ground. Both chief executives recently issued proclamations that recognize the positive role of soccer in youth development.

This year the Utah Youth Soccer Association celebrates its 25th Anniversary. With more than 30,000 registered players across the state, the Utah Youth Soccer Association offers recreational and competitive programs to boys and girls of all ages and abilities. Our game has now grown to the point where it touches every neighborhood and offers opportunity to every child in the state. In fact, the U.S. Youth Soccer Association is the world's largest youth sports organization.

The beautiful game of soccer belongs to its players. But no youth soccer organization can function without the dedicated service of its volunteers. The Utah Youth Soccer Association owes an immense debt of gratitude to the thousands of volunteers who make it possible for our players to enjoy the game. From coaches who instruct young players and learn patience in the process, to referees with the bravery to blow the whistle, to administrators who register players, schedule leagues, and mark fields, the success of youth soccer hinges on its ability to inspire people to work together.

Soccer has grown into the social fabric of our state. The sport unites communities. It bridges every cultural divide in our state, bringing together people of different backgrounds, races, faiths, and economic status. The game connects children and parents across the state and represents a vibrant cross section of Utah's diversity. The world's game today serves as Utah's melting pot.

As the volunteer president of the Utah Youth Soccer Association, I am proud to represent an organization whose mission is to serve our youth today and help prepare them for tomorrow. Earlier this year I became the first former player from Utah Youth Soccer to lead this organization. I played soccer because it was fun. But it also taught me much about the values of friendship and teamwork. These are lessons that transcend the game.

The Utah Youth Soccer Association wants to ensure that every interested child can learn these lessons through soccer. The biggest challenge that our organization faces, however, is an acute shortage of soccer fields along the Wasatch Front. Participation in soccer has boomed over the last 25 years, but the number of available fields has not kept pace, and worse still, has even diminished in some areas. Fields at parks and schools are often saturated with soccer players. Some of our leagues are nearing the brink of turning players away.

The generation of girls inspired by Mia Hamm as well as the boys drawn by soccer's universal appeal need places to play. It will require the support of the community-as well as the continued dedication of volunteers across the state-to ensure that soccer will remain the game for all kids.

Paul C. Burke is an attorney at a Salt Lake City law firm and serves as the president of the Utah Youth Soccer Association. He is also a coach in the Firebirds United Soccer Club.