Youth soccer camp returns to RSHS for 26th year

Kyle A. Pillar – Sports Editor

ROCKINGHAM — The longest-running youth sports camp at Richmond Senior High School will return for another summer. 

After reaching the quarter century mark last year, Richmond’s soccer program will celebrate its 26th camp later next month. 

One of several youth development camps held at the high school during the summer recess, soccer camp consistently hosts the largest number of campers. The last several years have averaged well over 100 participants. 

This year’s camp is slated for Monday, June 23, through Thursday, June 26. All four days of the camp will be held on Richmond’s soccer pitch, practice soccer field and football field.

Open to boys and girls ages six to 14 who are rising kindergarteners through rising ninth graders, each day of camp will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 11:30 a.m.

Expecting there to be another strong turnout across all the age groups, head soccer coach Chris Larsen is encouraging families to pre-register campers. 

Richmond’s mission statement for camp is “​​to teach, educate and raise the level of soccer skills for the campers as well as teach the team concept. This will lead to success on the soccer field.”  

Local soccer enthusiasts are also encouraged to “keep active this summer by being a part of a winning tradition.”

The cost for each camper for the four-day event is $75, which includes a camp t-shirt.

Soccer Camp Registration Link

Soccer Camp Payment Link

Payment can be sent via check to Richmond to the attention of Chris Larsen. Online payment through GoFan is an option, which includes a $4.75 service fee. 

Larsen said all equipment needed for camp will be provided, but campers are responsible for their own cleats, shin guards and water bottles. 

“Each summer we have the pleasure of offering this camp,” Larsen said. “Our goal is to continue to grow the sport in our county while the kids have an enjoyable experience. 

“The number of participants has been consistent for many years now and we get so many returning campers each summer,” he added. “As the sport continues to attract interest in our area, we want to provide varying levels of instruction to make our future Raiders successful today.”

Helping with the camp will be Richmond’s assistant soccer coaches Bennie Howard and Michelle Denson. Current and former Raider and Lady Raider soccer players will be on hand, as well as a few other area coaches. 

Soccer camp will be split into different age groups and the first three days will feature different skill-building activities. The week will culminate in a final day filled with small-sided games and scrimmages. 

Larsen can be reached at chrislarsen@richmond.k12.nc.us.