At fields in local parks, boys and girls are playing soccer, but they're actually doing more than that, said Adrian Young, president of the Manheim Soccer Club. "We play soccer, but we want to encourage having fun above all else," he explained. "We want to encourage teamwork. Soccer is really secondary."

The club is looking for new kids to join for this season, which will begin in early to mid-March, depending on the weather. The season will run until the first week in June. A fall season will run from early August through the first weekend in November.

The Manheim Soccer Club is open to youths up to age 12. "We have everything from U6 to U12 teams," Young stated, noting that players as young as 4 years old have joined. "We have intramural, rec and travel levels. We try and make sure we have a spot for any kid who wants to play." The U6 and U8 teams play against other teams in the club, while the U10 and U12 teams compete in the Lancaster Area Recreational Soccer league. The club is open to both boys and girls, and games are played on Saturdays and Sundays.

Experience is not necessary to play, Young noted, adding that soccer makes a great sport for anyone to try. Soccer, he said, is the most popular sport in the world. "It's a great way to get some exercise and to learn to be a part of a team," he commented. "I think every kid should join a team at some point just for the experience of being part of a team."

In addition to soccer players, Manheim Soccer Club is seeking coaches for every level, Young said, explaining, "We are a volunteer-based club."

He encourages anyone with an interest in the sport to sign up, either as a player or as a coach. "If you're looking to get out in the sun and have some fun, there is a place for you," he remarked.

For more information on the Manheim Soccer Club, call Young at 717-333-0440 or email him at adrian@adrianyoungteam.com. Information on the club is also available on the club's Facebook page, and a registration link is available at http://www.manheimsoccer.org.