TULSA, Okla. — Two Catholic parishes in North Tulsa try to carry soccer to the realm. Father Celestine Obidiegwu stated he noticed the chance to carry a soccer league proper to his yard.
His parish has about 10 acres of vacant land. He noticed match to show it into soccer fields, the place a number of leagues can play.
“These youngsters wish to play in a soccer league. You realize, they don’t wish to simply go and begin taking part in soccer round, no. They wish to take part in a league the place they’ll compete and win trophies, however not each mother or father in north Tulsa will be capable of afford to pay 300 {dollars} to play in a much bigger league,” Father Obidiegwu stated.
Father C serves at St. Augustine parish close to Apache and Peoria, he not solely has a coronary heart for his congregation, however for everybody in his group.
Each Sunday after mass, you discover him within the yard of his parish taking part in soccer with youngsters from the realm.
“It began from my background, I’m from Nigeria, I performed soccer , Excessive Faculty by way of faculty, after I was within the seminary as nicely, in order that’s the place this sturdy want is coming from,”Father Obidiegwu stated.
His private ardour for the game led him to rework the vacant lot right into a subject of desires.
“What a privilege, what an honor it’s for us to be a part of this. It’s at all times good to assist a toddler outline, refine, and develop these fundamental fantastic skills,” he stated.
He hopes the game will maintain youngsters bodily energetic and away from bother.
His aim is for households who typically cannot afford the prices of uniforms or league bills to have entry to the game.
Kimberly Allen is the grandmother of one of many gamers.
“It meant so much as a result of, , among the youngsters can’t afford to purchase what they want, , however they wish to play so with a view to get on the market and all look alike and I’ve the identical factor on, meaning so much,” Allen stated.
Inside two weeks they raised cash to cowl uniform and league bills for 50 youngsters within the space.
“Every of them acquired free soccer cleats, a free jersey, shin guard, and free registration”, Father Obidiegwu stated.
They at present have two soccer fields out there, however Father C stated they wish to increase as a result of extra youngsters wish to play.
Earlier than they’ll try this, they need to improve the land for correct drainage.
St. Augustine and St. Monica Catholic church buildings are asking the general public for assist as the price of these repairs vary anyplace from $120,000-$150,000.
If you want to make a donation to the church you may name 918-428-3280 or 918-607-8681.
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