Press Release

Oglethorpe Continues Katrina Relief Efforts Tomorrow

ATLANTA – Tomorrow Oglethorpe University head soccer coach Jon Akin, five Oglethorpe soccer players, four Atlanta soccer coaches and coaches and players from the Louisiana Spirit River Team will hold a soccer camp in Edgar, Louisiana for children living in two FEMA Transitional Trailer Communities. The camps will provide soccer training and prove to the children that anyone can play soccer.

The Amp Circle and L&L Trailer Communities are isolated from many activities and conveniences that residents of New Orleans were accustomed to having access to before the storm. “This soccer camp is a welcomed outlet and creates a lasting beginning for future recreational ventures in the area of St. John the Baptist Parish,” said Councilman Lester Rainey.

“We want to teach these kids that the skills they learn tomorrow on the field will help them succeed during a game and in life. If you practice everyday, work hard and stay determined you can be a success on and off the field,” said Coach Akin.

With the support of St. John the Baptist Parish, the parish school board and the city council the residents of the communities have transportation to the site of the soccer camp. Coach Akin worked with businesses in Atlanta to collect 100 new donated soccer balls to be given to every child who attends the camp. The Louisiana Spirit River Team will also provide free t-shirts to every participant and refreshments will be provided by the St. John Parish Recreational Department. The rec department does not have goals for the children to use. Coach Akin is bringing all the goals Oglethorpe can spare and hopes to reach out to the soccer community for donations.