Bend, Ore. – (July 9, 2018) — The 2018 Bend Unified Recreation Soccer League enrollment is at an all-time record high with nearly 2000 youth participating on 150 teams. Adult volunteers are needed to coach teams in the partner program between Bend Park and Recreation District and Bend FC Timbers.

The fall soccer season runs Aug. 20 to Oct.  27. Program participants are boys and girls going into first through eighth grade in the 2018-19 school year. Practices are held twice weekly with games played on Saturdays. Coaches volunteer approximately five hours per week for the 10-week season.

“Volunteer coaches are an essential part of the program, providing support with program logistics, coaching and mentoring youth,” said Rich Ekman, sports program coordinator, Bend Park and Recreation District. “Volunteers must enjoy working with youth and be able to create a positive, encouraging recreational environment for all players.”

Training and on-going support is provided to volunteer coaches. All coaches must complete a volunteer application and criminal history background check, as well as online concussion awareness training. A coaches meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 8, at 6 p.m. at the District Office, 799 SW Columbia St.

Online volunteer application and background check available at www.bendparksandrec.org.

For more information, visit www.bendparksandrec.org or contact Rich Ekman, BPRD Sports Program Coordinator at 541-706-6126, rich@bendparksandrec.org  or Kim Johnson, BPRD Community Engagement Supervisor at 541-706-6127, kim@bendparksandrec.org.