Hornet Soccer teams hold pre-season camp

By: Ed Weaver  /  July 1, 2019  /  Photo: Todd Fitch

Last week the Wellsboro Soccer teams hosted a camp in preparation for the upcoming season.

The camp was run by the Wellsboro coaching staff alongside former boys soccer head coach, and current Mansfield University womens coach, John Shaffer and Mercyhurst womens soccer coach Jon Arlet.

52 student-athletes, ranging from youth to varsity, took part in the week long camp that featured three different training sessions that took place simultaneously on the field.

"The goal is to provide a quality local soccer camp opportunity for the youth of the community that is reasonably priced and features the expertise of college coaching instruction," said boys head coach Todd Fitch. "I hope the athletes learn a skill that is hard for them to do or 'stretches' them at this time in their development. I hope they walk away from camp with a determination and persistence to take on the challenge to develop that skill."

Fitch also noted how ready each of the campers were to get back on the field.

"I think the kids are excited to simply have the opportunity to play soccer. To be able to play at a facility and on a field like we have in Wellsboro is an added incentive. Coach Arlet and Coach Shaffer are well liked by our players and I think that contributes to the turnout we get for the camp.

"We have kids that are playing futsal, whether it be local pick up or in the Williamsport league, throughout the winter and are usually 'chomping at the bit' to get out on the field come spring. I cannot overstate what our new stadium and field has done to elevate the motivation and development of our athletes."