Help Change Lives By Donating Your Old Soccer Equipment

June 12, 2012 - PRLog -- Street Soccer USA San Diego has teamed up with local Soccer Superstore -The Boca Soccer Store in the Sports Arena Area to deliver its inaugural equipment drive and both organizations are encouraging the local soccer community to rally round the program and help change people’s lives in the process.

The San Diego Chapter of Street Soccer USA is just beginning to establish itself in the region and is looking for the support of local soccer fans, players and clubs to help get the project off the ground.

SSUSA San Diego Program Director, Ryan Ginard said they are in urgent need of donations of old cleats, jerseys, shin guards, shorts, socks and all things soccer to help establish and facilitate its weekly training sessions.

“As a soccer player myself I know how much old equipment accrues in the cupboards, yet I’m reluctant to let it go. However, if I knew they were going to someone that needs them more than me I’m happy to donate them and I would encourage others to do the same.

“They say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure and something as simple as an old pair of cleats is just one of the things that can act as a catalyst for people to rebuild their confidence and transition off the streets into housing and paid work.

“Street Soccer USA is a fantastic program and is 100% volunteer driven, so donations are imperative if we are to get this project off the ground” Mr. Ginard said.

San Diego is one of the most passionate soccer communities in the country and this was evident when it recorded the highest viewership for the 2010 World Cup. It’s this passion that Boca Owner Yan Skwara knows will see a strong response to this equipment drive.

“Our organization shares much of the same principles the SSUSA program is built upon. We believe soccer is a great vehicle for social change and we have had a strong history of helping the homeless community through our ongoing support of local non-profit Embrace the Streets.

“I hope the local soccer community takes the opportunity to give back to the sport that has given them so many great memories and help change lives in the process” Mr. Skwara said.

People can donate their old equipment and apparel to Boca’s brand new store located at 3445 Midway Drive, Suite F, San Diego, CA 92110. Hours of operation are 9:30 am to 7:00 pm Monday through Thursday and 9:30 am to 6:00 pm Friday through Sunday. For further store information call 619-756-7528 or visit the bocasoccerstore.com  

For further information on Street Soccer USA San Diego please contact Ryan Ginard on 858-333-2545