Poetry and soccer…go together like a hand in a glove

Poetry In Motion

This past November I had the honor of being a writing coach for Cleveland SCORES in Ohio. I taught poetry writing for 3rd–5th graders. I helped the “poet athletes” and their writing team and individual poet prepare for the Poetry SLAM performance, held at Cleveland State University.
  

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It was an awesome experience helping the youngsters gain confidence in expressing themselves through poetry. The Poetry SLAM ends the fall season and the students take center stage at Waetjen Auditorium at Cleveland State University. They perform their original poems in front of friends and families, and community members. There are local literacy experts and writers that act as judges that present awards to the winning teams.
 
Today, I have the privilege and honor of speaking with Brittney Rzucidlo, Curriculum Director for America Scores. Brittney will shed light on Cleveland SCORES and share ways you can become involved.
 
Brittney could you explained what SCORES is?
“Cleveland SCORES an afterschool program that is an affiliate of the national SCORES program. We provide literacy and soccer programming to students in grades 1st - 8th. In soccer, students learn how the skills of the games such as dribbling and passing, and life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and commitment. They play games against other students on other teams in the SCORES program.
 
In writing in the fall, they are learning about poetry, and our 3rd - 5th grade students take part in a Poetry SLAM. In the spring, our 1st-2nd graders learn about Social Emotional Skills via storybooks, our 3rd- 5th graders learn about their community and complete a community service project, and our 6th - 8th graders learn poetry and write poems they perform at our end-of-season BLAST event.”
 
How many locations does Cleveland SCORES currently have?
“There are 17 locations spread throughout the Cleveland area. You can find a full list on our website at clevelandscores.org."
 
Could you explain, why soccer and poetry? It’s such a strange combination.
“Yeah sure. Cleveland SCORES takes a unique tri-curricular approach that teaches kids how physical activity, creative expression, and teamwork build a strong body, mind, and character. Soccer engages youth in vigorous activity and provides a platform for teaching fitness and nutrition. Youth learn the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline. Creative thinking promotes problem solving.”
 
You’ve mentioned the Poetry Slam that’s held in the fall, what other events does Cleveland SCORES offer?
“We run several events throughout the year. Some are community and student events while others are our annual fundraising events. Jamboree and BLAST are our end-of-season soccer events in the spring. We bring our families and students together to celebrate the season through soccer games, food, and giveaways.
 
Each spring we hold SCORES Cup. Cleveland SCORES hosts the region’s largest charity soccer tournament, uniting corporate and free-agent teams for a day of soccer, team building, and community impact.
 
One Night One Goal is a red-carpet evening that unites Cleveland SCORES supporters, community leaders, and partners for a night of inspiration and impact. Guests enjoy an elegant cocktail reception, student poetry performances, and an exclusive silent auction—all in support of our programming.”
 
The program is awesome! Could you explain how people can get involved?
“We are always looking for volunteers to help at any of our special events. We are also always looking for individuals who would like to referee at our soccer games, which take place in April and May or October and November. If you are interested in volunteering, you can fill out our volunteer form here: https://forms.gle/iTCDFHbdDLgihwi99. ”
 
Thank you Brittney for taking the time out of your busy schedule to speak to me.
“It’s been my pleasure.”

As a writing coach, I highly encourage writers to get involved with SCORES. Check out the website and see if SCORES is offered in your city and state. It is a great way to introduce creative writing to children and inspire future writers. What better way to give back to the community.  Oh, and you don’t have to be a writer to get involved with SCORES, if you love the game of soccer, you can also become a soccer coach, as well. www.scoresnetwork.org/

​Be sure to check out the latest Poetry SLAM performance on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eyIyeI0AVjs?si=thbJRxuhdzJ-JKp8
 
 Peace! 

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