This summer, more than 2,500 children participated in 50 soccer camps organized by the Philadelphia Union. Camps took place across Chester County and Central Jersey, filling local fields with young players who developed their skills and made new friends under the guidance of a large coaching staff.
Lisa Cotter, Director of Camps for the organization, led both full-time and part-time coaches, Union Academy player support staff, and a group of interns throughout the season. “When you’ve got a team this passionate, there’s no limit to what we can do for these kids. The energy from our staff and campers just keeps getting better every year!” said Cotter.
One notable development was the use of the WSFS Bank Sportsplex in Chester, PA. This new facility allowed campers to train in an environment used by the Union First Team, Union 2, and Union Academy. Some participants also had the opportunity to see professional players training nearby. Additionally, First Team members Tai Baribo, Chris Donovan, and Eddie Davis III visited campers during lunch.
The camps were designed to accommodate different skill levels and interests. Options included Open Camps for all levels, Elite Camps for advanced players, Goalkeeper Camps focused on defensive skills, High School Pre-Season Camp for preparation ahead of fall play, Team-Specific Camps tailored to squads’ needs, and The Total Experience Camp as an intensive program.
Lisa Cotter described the broader impact: “We saw friendships form right before our eyes. Yes, we want kids to leave our camps better soccer players, but more importantly, we want them to find joy in sport. Knowing we are capable of having a lasting impact on young soccer players is why we do this.”
Bimbo Bakeries USA served as the official sponsor for this year’s summer camps.
Looking ahead, several youth programs will continue at WSFS Bank Sportsplex. These include a six-week Goalkeeper Academy starting November 3 for ages 8-15 at $299 per participant. Free clinics are scheduled for November 6 and November 13 for ages 7-14 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. There will also be 3v3 pick-up sessions on December 4 and December 11 during the same hours.
