"We teach character, leadership, mental wellness, and we do those things through the sport of soccer, so using it really as a vehicle for transformation," Davis said.
"And then we seek to provide access to the game, so creating opportunities for kids."
Davis praised nine-year-old participant Mel Akon for his dedication and enthusiasm.
He recalled telling Mel about the Velocity's visit, and Mel's playful doubt turned into trust when the players showed up.
Thrive International Executive Director Mark Finney explained the long-term vision behind the five-year community initiative.
"This is the fifth year we've done a soccer camp, and the reason we do that is because our vision is we want to see people not just survive when they come to a new country, we want to help them thrive," Finney said.
Spokane Velocity forward Joe Gallardo tied 16-year-old Jomar TC at 35 touches in a juggling competition.
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He encouraged young players to work hard every day to achieve their goals.
Defender Moses Mensah, originally from Ghana, advised campers to listen to their coaches because they have more experience.
Eleven-year-old camper Emmanuel Kalumuna expressed his excitement after collecting autographs from all the visiting professionals.
Fall Registration Opens in Ephrata
In Ephrata, Washington, Parks and Recreation opened fall registration for youth soccer and flag football.
The department projects approximately 250 soccer participants aged 4 to 12 for the season running Sept. 15 through Oct.
15.
Recreation Supervisor Gunner Blankenship said the spring had about 250 kids for soccer, and they expect a similar number for fall.
