From the Field to the Future: Replay Soccer Clinic Brings Pros, Partners and Possibility to Sulphur Springs YMCA

As soccer gains popularity in the U.S., we are seeing an explosion of the game in Tampa Bay!

Right before the holidays, kids at our Sulphur Springs YMCA received an early Christmas gift: an afternoon with the Tampa Bay Sun, the Tampa Bay Rowdies and the Tampa Catholic Soccer Team. These three great soccer organizations came together to host a soccer clinic.

The clinic was part of Replay Tampa Bay, a sports commission initiative that collects new and gently used sports equipment and distributes it to children in need across the community. The event was made possible through partnerships with United Way Suncoast and Regions Bank, whose support helped advance Replay Tampa Bay’s mission to remove barriers to youth sports and expand access to healthy activities.

Throughout the afternoon, young players rotated through fun and informative soccer stations led by players and coaches from each organization. The drills focused on essential skills such as dribbling, passing and teamwork, while also emphasizing confidence, sportsmanship and having fun. For many participants, it was an opportunity to learn directly from experienced high school and professional athletes and coaches in a supportive, welcoming environment.

The excitement was taken to the next level with special appearances from beloved mascots Solé and Pinnie the Pelican, who helped motivate the kids, joined in the drills and posed for photos.

At the conclusion of the clinic, each child received a soccer ball to take home, allowing them to continue practicing their new skills long after the clinic ended.

“This clinic means so much to our kids and our community,” said Kathy Cubbage, Operations Director and Community School Director for the Sulphur Springs YMCA. “By bringing together professional teams, community partners and local youth, we’re showing our children that they are supported, valued and encouraged to chase their dreams. Events like this remind them that with good grades, dedication and a strong passion, anything is possible, even becoming a professional athlete.”

A big thank you to all who made the clinic possible. The Tampa YMCA is proud to serve as a hub for community collaboration. Events like the Replay soccer clinic demonstrate the power of sports to inspire confidence, build connections and strengthen neighborhoods, both on and off the field.