Soccer Shots Kicks Into Kalamazoo

KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Soccer Shots, the engaging children’s soccer program best known for its focus on character development, announced today it is joining the Kalamzaoo community.

“Being able to blend my passions for soccer and educating children with business ownership makes Soccer Shots the perfect opportunity for me,” said Anika Johnson, owner of the Soccer Shots Kalamazoo, who first became familiar with the program as a Soccer Shots coach in Texas. “I’m excited to be a part of a program that puts an emphasis on providing children with the tools to reach their full potential.”

Aimed at positively impacting children’s lives, Soccer Shots strives to be the best part of a child’s week through best-in-class coaching, communication and curriculum. Serving children ages two through eight, the program features professional coaches in the community, an exceptional customer experience including ongoing communication and an expert-approved curriculum that aligns with early childhood education standards. The weekly programs, customized for three different age groups, teach children soccer fundamentals and character-building skills. Soccer Shots hosts private sessions through local schools and childcare centers as well as public programs, which are typically hosted through park districts.

“There are several reasons why I wanted to bring Soccer Shots to Kalamazoo, including the stories I was able to share with friends and family on how I saw the program impact children’s lives during my time as a coach,” added Johnson. “It is a testament to the proven business model and curriculum the Soccer Shots team has worked hard to develop and shows that participation in sports can provide several benefits beyond simply learning the sport itself.”

Looking to fill an opening in the marketplace for quality soccer programs, professional soccer teammates Jeremy Sorzano and Jason Webb launched Soccer Shots in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1999 under the name Soccer Pals. Jeremy and Jason strived to close the gap in the existing programs that did not have the resources or skills to effectively teach children soccer fundamentals. In 2009, Justin Bredeman, another former college soccer teammate of Jeremy and Jason, became the third Soccer Shots partner. Soccer Shots now serves over 440,000 children annually and continues to grow its programming throughout North America.

“Anika shares our passion for creating positive experiences through sports with the goal to make a lasting impact on children’s lives,” said Justin Bredeman, CEO of Soccer Shots. “She is committed to helping the next generation of children gain the skills they need to be successful in soccer and in forming positive relationships on any field or arena. We’re excited Anika can provide a fun, growth experience for the boys and girls in Kalamazoo.”

About Soccer Shots

Based outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Soccer Shots is an international franchise program that provides children ages two through eight with a developmentally appropriate soccer and character development experience under the guidance of childhood education specialists, professional soccer players and experienced and licensed soccer coaches. The brand’s curriculum-based program is offered through 120 franchises operating in more than 200 territories across nearly 40 states and Canada. Soccer Shots was founded by two professional soccer players who identified a need for quality and engaging soccer programs for children under age eight.

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