The Positive Impact of Sports on Children: A Look at Soccer Stars Nashville
It’s widely recognized that sports can play a transformative role in the lives of children, fostering not only physical health but also social skills, teamwork, and self-esteem. However, keeping young children engaged in sports can often be a challenge for parents and coaches alike. Enter Jennifer Laviolette, a passionate advocate for youth sports who believes she has found a solution through Soccer Stars, a program designed to teach soccer skills to children as young as one year old in a nurturing and positive environment.
A New Venture in Youth Sports
After falling in love with Soccer Stars’ unique approach to coaching and community building, Laviolette took a bold step and opened her own local franchise in Williamson County and the Nashville area. The launch of her franchise was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Pinkerton Park in Franklin, organized by Williamson Inc., marking her official entry into the business community.
Laviolette’s journey to becoming a youth soccer coach was unexpected. With a background in engineering and four children of her own, she was initially hesitant about diving into a business centered around kids. However, her extensive research into Soccer Stars’ curriculum and business model quickly changed her mind. “I did not initially want a business with kids – that wasn’t necessarily what I was looking for – but it’s just so well done, so well put together,” she shared.
A Curriculum Backed by Experts
One of the standout features of Soccer Stars is its commitment to creating a curriculum that is both fun and educational. The program collaborates with child psychologists and soccer experts to ensure that its teaching methods are developmentally appropriate and effective. Laviolette emphasized the importance of this support, stating, “The company is enthusiastic and positive and very supportive of not only their local franchisees, but also other businesses.”
Soccer Stars Nashville offers a variety of classes, camps, and programs at preschools, daycares, elementary schools, private schools, churches, and county parks, catering to children starting at just one year old. This wide reach allows Laviolette to engage with families across the community, providing accessible opportunities for children to learn and play.
Learning Through Play
At Soccer Stars, the focus is on using games to teach technical soccer skills. The youngest participants, accompanied by their parents, engage in pre-movement classes that incorporate songs and various tools to introduce them to the world of sports. As children grow older, they transition into more structured classes where they learn soccer skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Laviolette believes that fostering enthusiasm and encouragement is crucial in these early stages. “The soccer skills will come, especially as they get older. A 2-year-old is going to learn how to kick a ball, but the most important thing is that they love the sport,” she explained. This philosophy aims to instill a lifelong passion for sports in children, helping them stay motivated and excited as they grow.
Building Connections and Community
As Laviolette works to expand her Soccer Stars franchise, she is eager to connect with preschool directors, leaders at local schools, and anyone involved in youth programs who might be interested in collaborating. Her vision is to create a network of support that enhances the experience for children and families involved in Soccer Stars.
Additionally, Laviolette is on the lookout for passionate individuals to join her team as coaches. Interestingly, she notes that no prior coaching experience is required. “I started coaching and I did not realize how much I actually love that. That was an unintended consequence that I’m really thankful for,” she said, highlighting how her journey has transformed her perspective on youth sports.
Discovering More About Soccer Stars Nashville
For families interested in exploring the opportunities that Soccer Stars Nashville offers, more information can be found on their website. The program’s commitment to creating a positive, engaging, and skill-building environment for children is evident, making it a valuable resource for parents looking to introduce their kids to the joys of soccer.
In a world where sports can sometimes feel competitive and overwhelming, Laviolette’s approach through Soccer Stars stands out as a beacon of positivity, ensuring that children not only learn the fundamentals of soccer but also develop a love for the game that can last a lifetime.