Belmont Soar FC: A New Era for Soccer in Belmont County
A New Home for Soccer Enthusiasts
Nestled in the western portion of Belmont County lies a remarkable 28-acre recreational site that has recently become the backdrop for a new soccer club: Belmont Soar FC. This area, known as the Belmont County Sports Complex, has undergone a significant transformation since its inception as a reclamation project in 1986. While the two youth baseball diamonds have served local organizations, it is now the soccer community’s turn to flourish.
Currently, the complex features two youth soccer fields designated for U10 and U12 teams, with ambitious plans in place to expand this foundation. According to Jaclyn Ketter, the club’s President and Coach, the vision includes "three additional fields and more amenities," illustrating the club’s dedication to robust soccer development in the community.
Starting from Scratch: The Growth Journey
Jaclyn Ketter reflected on the club’s journey since it became a non-profit just 11 months ago. “We’ve accomplished a lot in a short amount of time,” she said, highlighting the swift evolution from a single team to the formation of two active teams. Initially bereft of field space, Ketter noted the importance of partnering with Belmont County Commissioners to forge ahead with plans for five fields.
The club is not just focusing on expanding its member base; it aims to cultivate a soccer culture among younger children. “We’d like to start having U4, U6, and U8 teams play in the spring,” Ketter explained. The ambition to cater to all ages, ultimately extending to U14 and high school levels, embodies the club’s goal of nurturing young talent in a region historically underserved in terms of soccer opportunities.
A Nod to Local Heritage and Unique Initiatives
The name Belmont Soar FC carries a deeper meaning; it signifies the club’s roots and aspirations. Ketter explained, "We wanted to give a nod to Union Local and western Belmont County. They are the Jets." This connection to local pride is crucial, uniting the community under a shared love for soccer.
Belmont Soar FC has already attracted around 40 girls, a unique accomplishment that Ketter takes pride in. “We want to start young and teach them the basics and rules of soccer,” she emphasized. With the growing interest in soccer fueled by star players like Lionel Messi and the U.S. Women’s National Team, Ketter believes that now is the perfect time to champion the sport in the U.S.
“There are so many high schools around here that don’t have soccer programs,” she noted. “If we help them learn about it now, that will benefit everyone down the road.”
The Dream of Community Space
One of the notable aspects of Belmont Soar FC is its vision for the future. Devin Cain, a board member, highlighted the challenges faced when searching for practice space. Having tried to utilize facilities at Union Local and the Belmont County MRDD, the discovery of the Belmont County Sports Complex felt serendipitous. “The commissioners were glad to see this property get more use than it does,” Cain remarked, expressing excitement over the potential of such a vast facility.
Plans for additional community amenities include a playground, allowing younger siblings to engage while older members play soccer. Cain believes that visibility is key—"The more they see it, the more they will want to play."
Ketter also added that future plans include a concession stand and bleachers, bringing even more community-friendly features to the complex.
Funding and Community Support: The Path Forward
Despite their optimism and vision for growth, the Belmont Soar FC recognizes that community support is the backbone of their development efforts. “What we need to make this work are donations, community involvement, and parent involvement to help develop that for the future,” urged Katie Fowkes, the club’s treasurer.
The club’s relationship with local youths, parents, and patrons plays a significant role in their mission, and continued engagement is paramount to ensuring that the momentum remains strong as they embark on this journey together.
A Bright Future for Soccer in Belmont County
While the Belmont Soar FC may be in its early stages, the enthusiasm, commitment, and dreams shared among its members and the community signify that a new chapter is about to unfold for soccer in Belmont County. The efforts of the club and its board of directors could be the catalyst for not only local growth but also a brighter future for youth sports in the region.