Weekly Soccer Matches Mean Weekly Fun in the Excellence Center

Article by: Phia Anderson

Every week, the Excellence Center in Europe hosts a soccer match between participants at a local pitch, giving everyone a chance to let off some steam, get some exercise in, and bond through a team environment! With between fifteen to twenty participants at every two-hour long match, everyone gets to play, regardless of skill level. Many of the participants have never played soccer before, but as is our mantra in everything, everyone is welcome!

As the matches are played in a community space, even local kids or soccer players are welcome to join the match, letting those at the center get more involved with the community and practice their German or Arabic language skills. Even if some participants are more comfortable watching than playing, everyone at the center gets involved in some way, and the matches always end with smiles all around.

Experiences of Participants with the Weekly Matches

MacKenzie Zwillman, one of the volunteers, was new to soccer, and at first, was hesitant to take part. But now, after playing with the center every week, is eager for the matches and even following the Euros and Copa America closely.

Hugh Morrison, an Arabic student who had played soccer in elementary school but had not gotten a chance to play since loves getting to take part in the matches and says they’re one of his favorite parts of being involved with the center.

“It takes our camaraderie from the center and puts it in a different atmosphere,” he explains. “And it lets us get to know each other and get closer in new ways.”

Another volunteer, Madeline Brooks, feels the same way. “I love playing against the other people from the center,” she says. “It’s so fun to get to play with Rafat and Muaz too, and it helps all of us at the center bond.”

Even when just watching, German student Emily Poole still gets joy from the matches. “It’s so exciting! I love watching everyone have fun and let loose after work and lessons.”

Our Matches Build Community

In all, the soccer matches the Excellence Center puts on are a favorite of the participants at the center and one of the most memorable parts of the community-building they put so much effort into. Whether watching from the sidelines or getting on the pitch, and whether you’re a soccer expert or a newbie to the game, the center’s matches welcome everyone and create a fun atmosphere for all.