The sight of over 15 soccer fields and the smiling faces of Wilmette Wings players greeted soccer players from Bethune, Howe, Goethe and Jahn at Avoca Park for the annual Wilmette Crosstown Classic. U8, U9 and U10 Wings teamed up with UI players for an afternoon of soccer and making new friends.
Soccer balls rolled and laughter was heard from the U8’s, encouragement and communication was on display from the U9’s and tips on improving skills were being shared by the U10’s. Wings players made the UI players and their families feel welcome the moment they stepped onto the soccer fields.
Despite the cold, UI parents also enjoyed themselves at the Crosstown, meeting the Wilmette Wings moms and dads who are equally as passionate about keeping their children active through soccer.
UI kids enjoyed every moment of the Crosstown in Wilmette, the day ended with some pizza, bananas and water to reenergize their bodies after a soccer filled afternoon. Instant bonds were created between the Wings and the UI players, and it certainly showed as they sat together during their snack after a great afternoon of fun. As UI kids wrapped up and began boarding their busses back to Chicago, Paulina from Goethe said, “This was awesome! When do we get to come back here?” While kids from Howe were excited that the Wings players extended an invite to come back next year! UI kids are already looking forward to next year’s Crosstown Classic.
Urban Initiatives would like to thank the Wilmette Wings players and parents for hosting UI kids and their families in Wilmette. A special thank you goes out to Ann Roberts and all of the Wilmette Wings volunteers and coaches for organizing and hosting this year’s Crosstown Classic!
You can see more pictures from the Crosstown Classic HERE.
