A New Era for Soccer in Belmont County: The Launch of Belmont Soar FC
A Community Initiative
In the heart of Belmont County, a new chapter in local sports is unfolding with the establishment of Belmont Soar FC, a soccer club dedicated to fostering the love of the game among youth in the area. The club is set against the backdrop of the Belmont County Sports Complex, a 28-acre recreational site that has been a part of the community since its reclamation in 1986. While the complex has primarily served youth baseball, the introduction of Belmont Soar FC marks a significant shift towards expanding soccer opportunities in this rural region.
Growing the Game
Belmont Soar FC is currently in its infancy, having been officially established as a non-profit organization just 11 months ago. Despite this short timeframe, the club has made impressive strides. According to Jaclyn Ketter, the club’s President and Coach, “We started with one team and now we have two.” The club currently boasts 40 girls, a unique aspect that highlights its commitment to inclusivity and growth in the sport.
The club has already developed two youth soccer fields for U10 and U12 players, with ambitious plans to add three more fields and additional amenities in the near future. Ketter emphasizes the importance of starting young, stating, “We want to teach them the basics and rules of soccer so they learn the correct way from the beginning.” This foundational approach aims to cultivate a new generation of soccer players who are well-versed in the game.
A Vision for the Future
Belmont Soar FC’s vision extends beyond just a few teams. Ketter envisions a comprehensive program that includes U4, U6, and U8 teams, with aspirations to eventually offer programs up to U14 and high school levels. “The southeastern part of Ohio is so rural and not very soccer friendly,” she notes, expressing a desire to change that narrative. The club aims to not only serve Belmont County but also reach out to neighboring counties, creating a broader soccer community.
The name "Belmont Soar FC" pays homage to the local Union Local Jets, reflecting a sense of community pride and connection. Ketter’s personal journey in soccer, having grown up in St. Clairsville and now seeing her daughter involved in the sport, fuels her passion for providing more opportunities for youth in the area. “To grow up in this area playing soccer and now be able to give back my time and knowledge of the game means more to me than what I can put in words,” she shares.
Community Support and Development
The club’s success hinges on community involvement and support. As Katie Fowkes, the club’s treasurer, points out, “What we need to make this work are donations, community involvement, and parent involvement to help develop that for the future.” The board of directors, which includes dedicated members like Devin Cain, is actively seeking ways to enhance the facilities and programs available at the complex.
Plans for the future include the addition of a playground for younger siblings, a concession stand, and bleachers for spectators. Cain highlights the importance of creating an inviting environment for families, stating, “The more they see it, the more they will want to play.” This family-oriented approach is crucial for building a sustainable soccer culture in Belmont County.
The Broader Impact of Soccer
Belmont Soar FC is not just about soccer; it represents a movement to bring a globally beloved sport to a community that has historically lacked such opportunities. Ketter notes the recent surge of interest in soccer in the United States, fueled by the successes of figures like Lionel Messi and the U.S. Women’s National Team. “Soccer is the World’s sport. It’s finally coming to America,” she says, reflecting the excitement and potential for growth in the sport.
As the club continues to develop, it aims to instill a love for soccer in the youth of Belmont County, paving the way for future high school programs and fostering a sense of community through sport. The journey of Belmont Soar FC is just beginning, but the enthusiasm and dedication of its board members and community supporters promise a bright future for soccer in the region.