New Era of Youth Sports: Brevard Public Schools’ Susin, Rendell Launch First-Ever Elementary Soccer and Flag Football Programs
By Space Coast Daily // October 29, 2024
BPS elementary schools kick off inaugural soccer season, initiative came from Susin, a former coach, teacher
36 out of 56 elementary schools have kicked off their inaugural soccer season this fall, setting the stage for a vibrant new chapter in local athletics.
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – In a groundbreaking move initiated by Brevard Public Schools school board member Matt Susin and Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell for youth sports on the Space Coast, 36 out of 56 elementary schools have kicked off their inaugural soccer season this fall, setting the stage for a vibrant new chapter in local athletics.
The initiative, which separates players into two divisions—grades three and four in one and grades five and six in the other—aims to provide accessible, organized sports for young students while fostering teamwork, health, and community.
New Era of Youth Sports
The initiative’s drive came from Susin, a former coach, teacher, and now school board member, who brought it forward at the end of last year.
“The soccer season started last week and will run until November 16,” said Susin. “It culminates in a much-anticipated jamboree that promises to bring excitement and friendly competition to the community.”
The program’s designers have intentionally offset the schedules from local high schools, allowing high school players and coaches to volunteer, mentor younger athletes, and create a supportive bridge between different levels of play.
In the spring, the fun will continue with flag football, structured in the same two-grade divisions, ensuring a smooth transition for families eager for year-round engagement in sports.
Brevard Public Schools District Director of Athletics Kevin Robinson is excited about the program.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for our elementary-age kids who might not otherwise have the opportunity to compete in organized sports at this age,” said Robinson.
Building Community and Health Through Sports
Having students participate in sports will increase their academic achievement.
The Institute of Medicine has called on school leaders to offer more opportunities for children to be physically active before, during, and after the school day. Both childhood obesity and poor academic performance tend to be clustered in schools with a high percentage of lower-income, minority students, creating a student health issue that is especially problematic in those communities.
“The physical activity provided by these programs combats childhood obesity and promotes essential life skills such as collaboration and mentorship—goals that align seamlessly with Brevard Public Schools’ mission to improve students’ mental health,” said Rendell.
According to a recent study by Matt D. Hoffman, participation in team sports compared to non-sport involvement was associated with 10% lower anxious/depressed scores, 19% lower withdrawn/depressed scores, 17% lower social problems scores, 17% lower thought problems scores, and 12% lower attention problems scores.”
But beyond the benefits for individual health and academic performance, these programs directly address the growing concerns of families feeling overwhelmed by the demands of travel and recreational sports.
“Many single-parent households and families with multiple children struggle to juggle sports schedules,” said Susin.
“This initiative brings sports to the schools, allowing kids to play during school hours, which frees up evenings for family time and meals together.”
A Game-Changer for Families
Introducing soccer and flag football at elementary schools represents a welcome change in a landscape where weekend games and evening practices have burdened family schedules.
“Parents can now watch their kids play without the logistical nightmare of driving to distant fields or managing conflicting schedules,” said Robinson.
“This is about creating a balance. Having practices and games at school means we can enjoy our evenings instead of rushing from one place to another.”
As the season unfolds, excitement is palpable among students, parents, and coaches alike.
“With the promise of spirited competition and community building, the inaugural year of elementary soccer and flag football is more than just a series of games; it’s a celebration of youth, health, and the invaluable bonds that come from playing together,” said Susin.
Looking Ahead
As the November jamboree approaches, anticipation builds—not just for the competition but for the future of youth sports in Brevard County.
This initiative could lead to a more sustainable model of community sports that prioritizes family time, health, and the joy of play.
Whether scoring goals or tackling opponents, Brevard’s young athletes will experience the thrill of teamwork, camaraderie, and fun while making memories that will last a lifetime.
With the school year in full swing, the field is set, and the kickoff is just the beginning of a new legacy in youth athletics on the Space Coast,” said Susin.
