Elementary Families Experience Inaugural Local Soccer Tournament

On October 28, 2023, all twenty-seven elementary soccer teams gathered at the Royal Field for an inaugural soccer tournament hosted by Visalia Unified School District’s Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP).

Ten teams took the field promptly at 8:00 am to kick off the first five games with the championship game kicking off at 3:30pm. The tournament was the culminating event for students in 4th through 6th who had spent the last four weeks practicing with Elevo coaches during session two of after school programming. Students received shin guards and socks from ELOP prior to the games. The Linwood Eagles went home champions with a t-shirt souvenir of their hard work and dedication.

For many working parents, after school programs provide a safe and structured environment for students until parents are able to pick them up. For students, it can make an incredible difference in their academic and interpersonal relationships.

Selina Ortega, mother of a Linwood Eagle, teared up as she said, “[My child] has never been a fan of after school programs, but this year was the first year that he’s been excited about it. He’s a shy kid and his motivation and confidence has gone up tremendously.” Session three of ELOP currently has a waiting list, however families do have the opportunity to register their students for the program’s three-week winter camp that starts on Monday, December 18th and runs until Friday, January 5th. Students will have the opportunity to participate in cooking, lego building, art, and STEM each day of the program. “We’re proud of what ELOP has accomplished this year with leveraging our partnerships to keep students engaged and connected with school,” added Superintendent Kirk Shrum.

About Visalia Unified: Visalia Unified School District (VUSD) is the 32nd largest district in California serving over 32,000 students in preschool to adult at 56 locations, including 42 schools and several administrative buildings that house a community library, a family resource center, a bus transportation hub, and much more.