Soccer For All: A Look Into The Edgewater Castle Football Foundation's Youth Programming

Credit: Birchard Allen IV

Soccer has the power to bring communities together, inspire teamwork, and develop the next generation of athletes. For many young players, access to quality training and coaching can be a barrier, but thanks to the Edgewater Castle Football Foundation, that barrier is being removed. A free youth soccer clinic is offering young athletes the opportunity to hone their skills, learn from experienced coaches, and grow in a supportive and welcoming environment. Whether you're a beginner or experienced on the field, the youth soccer programs are designed to help every participant reach their full potential.

Dylan Walsh brought his two sons, Thomas and Matt, for the first time to the clinic. Even as an adult, Walsh finds the kids’ activities interesting. “It's team oriented, all the kids are getting involved and getting active, and the coach is very active as well,” Walsh said. Walsh also expressed gratitude that the clinics are free for the community. “The fact that it's free is amazing,” he said. “It allows anyone the opportunity to come out and play.”

His two sons, Thomas and Matt, love coming to these clinics and enjoy playing soccer, even though Matt is a big basketball fan and likes to support the Bulls. Thomas is a fan of the Chicago Red Wings NHL team. They both love scoring goals and having fun making friends. 

Another parent, Santoosh, has been bringing his son to these clinics for the past three months. He keeps bringing his son to get him to learn and see how far he can go with soccer. He likes that his son can develop social skills through the program. “At least he makes good friends,” Santoosh said.

Coach Nirmal Magar, who runs the clinics, has been playing soccer for more than 10 years. He started playing as a winger and now plays the fullback position. He enjoys coaching the kids to be engaged in the game, whether it be outside or inside. He loves spreading his knowledge to the youth and helping build the Edgewater community. Magar, originally from Nepal, is a current player for ECFC.

The Edgewater Castle Football Foundation’s free youth soccer clinic is more than just a place to learn the game — it’s a space where kids can grow, connect, and build confidence both on and off the field. Through the dedication of coaches like Guillermo and the support of parents like Dylan and Santoosh, the clinic is creating lasting memories and valuable life lessons for young athletes. By breaking down barriers and fostering a love for soccer, the program is strengthening the Edgewater community and proving that sports have the power to unite, inspire, and create opportunity for everyone.