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Maryland pioneers model that brings soccer into high-poverty schools
TAKOMA PARK, Maryland – It’s 3:40 pm on a fall afternoon, and as classes let out, about 40 children flood into the outdoor patio at Rolling Terrace Elementary School. They come for snacks and soccer and receive life lessons along the way.
On this day, many are antsy to play soccer, tying their free cleats and chatting loudly with friends rather than listening to their mentors discuss what optimism and persistence mean. Lukas Barbieri, a high school student who is the youngest of Rolling Terrace’s soccer mentors, eventually quiets the kids down.
“Does anyone remember what optimism means?” Barbieri asks.
“Helping your friends,” says one child. “Being thoughtful,” adds another.
“Sort of,” Barbieri replies. “Optimism means you have to believe in yourself.”
In a sense, this scene represents what optimism for youth sports looks like.