Balling it for Christmas with Camp TFA

Lewis Grizzard once said, "The game of life is a lot like football. You have to tackle your problems, block your fears, and score your points when you get the opportunity." Echoing this sentiment locally, by offering football, inclusive of life lessons for the festive season, is coach Raymond Leveridge.

So, why have a Christmas camp? Aside from the fact that coach Leveridge has experienced major success with previous Easter and summer camps, creating a demand to tackle the sporting sphere for the Yuletide cheer, he is also a father. He understands first-hand, how important it is for toddlers and pre-teens to keep active and put their high energies to creative use, while giving parents that well-deserved break during the holidays to stay ahead of their hectic schedules.

ACTIVITIES FOR BOYS

"There has been a surge in youth programmes in recent times, with more demand in outlets for boys. So I am happy to contribute towards that cause. In a couple years, these programmes should do better on the international scene.

"All the coaches from the youth programme came together to start this camp. Currently, I have three other coaches who signed up for the camp and if the turnout is greater than 40 boys, then I have two other coaches on standby," he told Outlook.

Coach Leveridge, is no stranger to football. In fact, he has always had a passion for the sport. Unfortunately, he was unable to receive any level of play in football, because he kept getting injured. This setback, however, didn't deter him from being actively involved in the sport. He began coaching in 2006 with intercollegiate football and progressed from there.

"After working with adults, teenagers, and children, I found it more meaningful to teach children - my daughter might have influenced that outcome," he said.

He started the Fulfillment Football Academy in 2009, paused in 2012 to travel, and after doing extensive research, returned to the arena with Total Football Academy (TFA) in 2015.

So far, he describes his journey of coaching youths as fun and fulfilling.

"It's so great working with children. You will teach and they won't make any progress at first, until one day right before your eyes, they do everything that they are taught. So I get a real sense of worth and accomplishment. And it's not just about football, I look forward to teaching them life skills," he shared, as he sometimes functions as an extended parent.

The Christmas camp is open to boys and girls ages four to 12 years old, and is designed to build individual skills in children, both on and off the field, as well as boost confidence.

"We apply a holistic approach to teaching life lessons through the development of sports. At the end of the programme, campers will be able to tackle and defend. As a surprise, each camper will receive their very own TFA jersey with their name on the back. Also, the children will be able to put their skills to the test, as parents will be invited to watch the tournament at the end to see what their sons and daughters have learned."

The Christmas camp runs from December 17-21, in Mona, St Andrew, beginning daily at 9 a.m., and ending at 1 p.m.

Drop offs is from 8:30 a.m., and pick up goes up to 2:30 p.m.

Daily hydration in the form of Gatorade and water will be available, along with snacks; lunch is not included.

So what are you waiting for? Make family time more memorable for the holidays and gift your gems fun-filled days leading up to Christmas with Total Football Academy JA.

For more information, contact coach Leveridge via email: totalfootballacademyja@gmail.com or Call/WhatsApp: (876) 485-9707.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com