Wizards' Souter teams up with 'Are You In?'
"We have some incredible opportunities in sport in Kansas City and this grass roots initiative is designed to help create positive youth sports experiences for players, coaches, fans, parents and officials. Kevin is truly an athlete who understands the benefits of character-driven athletics and he is a wonderful role model for area youth," said John Leavens, NAIA Senior Vice President for Membership. "With Kevin's help we are asking the youth soccer community to join the discussion and take the "Are You In?" survey."
Souter, a former NAIA All-American who helped Graceland (Iowa) University to a national championship title in 2006, made his Major League Soccer debut with the Wizards against the Los Angeles Galaxy on September 13, 2008. He has since appeared in six games and recorded one goal. Souter's proven to be a professional on the soccer field and continues his run to help the Wizards in 2009. His commitment on the pitch is matched with his level of excitement for the Kansas City community.
"I think "Are You In?" provides a great opportunity for young athletes in Kansas City to learn something about sportsmanship and hard work through a well-organized program from the NAIA," Souter said. "Soccer is a big part of my life, and I want to help grow the sport in Kansas City and the United States. This program will be a lot of fun for kids and provide many opportunities for team building."
Souter has teamed up with "Are You In?" and created Souter's Circle. He asks youth soccer players, parents, coaches, leagues and fans to join him in three steps to make a positive impact on youth development and character-driven athletics. To join Souter's Circle visit www.AreYouInKC.org and take the "Are You In?" survey, commit as a player, team or league on winning strategies and enter the Souter's Circle contest. Two winners will be selected to receive an "Are You In?" award presented by Souter at the Kansas City Wizards end-of-the-year banquet. Each winner will receive a pair of 2010 Wizards season tickets compliments of the NAIA.
Souter aligns with other key stakeholders throughout the metropolitan area like the YMCA, Jackson County Parks and Recreation, Kansas City Parks and Recreation, Blue Valley Recreation League, Great American Basketball League, Brookside Soccer and others who have already joined the discussion. These organizations represent more than 100,000 players and fans who are dedicated to create a better sports experience for area youth. "Are You In?" partners will complete a survey and the results will be used to create the first "scorecard" on sport in Kansas City.
To join Souter's Circle, check out his five character tips and to learn more visit www.AreYouInKC.org.
