ROCKINGHAM — The hottest week of the summer hasn’t stopped dozens of local soccer players from getting out on the field.
Richmond Senior High School’s 26th annual soccer development camp began Monday and will continue through Thursday.
Head coach Chris Larsen shared that around 80 campers have attended this year’s camp. Participants were split up into two elementary age groups, as well as a middle and high school group.
“It’s been a great first three days of camp so far,” Larsen said. “Despite the temperature and heat index, the kids seem to be having a lot of fun. It’s always great to see so many returning faces and we’re making sure to take extra water breaks.
“Our numbers are down a little bit compared to other recent camps, but there is still a lot of learning going on,” he continued. “The kids are getting a lot of instruction from the coaches and they’re building on their skillset every day. We’re excited to see it all put together for the final day of camp.”
Helping Larsen direct the camp has been Bennie Howard, and assistant coach Jessi Weigman has also led instruction. Several former players such as Allie Rodgers, Samantha Barnes, Jayana Nicholson, Kyra Wall and Caroline Whitley have also lent their expertise as coaches.
Current Richmond soccer players Colbie Covington, Patrick Smith, Ashton Mabe and Cole Lambeth were assisting different age groups during Wednesday’s session.
Larsen explained that the first three days of camp teach players a variety of skills and fundamentals that will culminate Thursday in a series of scrimmages and small-sided games.
