Special to the Almanac
Ravenswood Youth Athletic Association, a startup, faith-based sports league that provides low-cost sports programs to kids in East Palo Alto and the Belle Haven neighborhood of Menlo Park, has launched its soccer season.
Although the first games on September 16 had 400 boys and girls, ages 4 to 18, participating at Cesar Chavez School, there still may be room for kids to register, particularly girls.
The league is also still looking for more volunteer coaches and referees.
Many of the leagues west of the Bayshore freeway in Palo Alto and Menlo Park are financially out of reach for Ravenswood residents, said Shannon Pekary, a software developer and resident of East Palo Alto. That’s why he started the nonprofit league, he said.
Mr. Pekary said that RYAA will work to strengthen the community at the same time that it provides positive sports programs — soccer to begin with and basketball, football and wrestling to follow.
A Christian-based organization, it aims to build character and faith in two ways, he said: Coaches will deliver three-minute lessons in the middle of practice to emphasize cooperation and hard work; and partnerships with local churches will help guide kids to resources that can help them develop. Coaches will also lead prayers on the field before each game.
“What excited me was the opportunity not only to offer a diversion for the area’s youth, but to help kids grow and mature into healthy adults — physically, socially, spiritually,” Mr. Pekary said in a written statement. “Kids need purpose in their lives, and we hope to help them find it.”
Soccer registration is $40; scholarships are available.
Those interested in coaching, refereeing, becoming a league sponsor, or otherwise getting involved can visit www.ravenswoodsports.org or call 248-0488 for information.
