FORT STEWART, Ga. — Soccer is one of the world’s most popular sport, with over 250 million players in over 200 different countries, making this ball-kicking event a popular choice for some according to the Federation Internationale de Football Association. Apparently, for Fort Stewart and the Marne Division, this appears to be true.

“Soccer is one of our most popular sports,” said Jeff Vreeland, an employee with Child and Youth Sports Services. “We fill up pretty quick.”

Several youths took to the pitch or for us Americans, the soccer fields for the very first time this season, March 10. For the past few weeks, the little Pelés have been focusing on the fundamentals of soccer, such as passing, dribbling, field generalship, game strategy and teamwork.

“It’s all about the basics,” said Fort Stewart Rapids assistant coach Spc. Ricardo Valadez, a soldier assigned to 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, Third Infantry Division. “If I can get them to kick the ball in the right goal it’s a good game.”

While there were no scores kept for the younger kids, the competition rivaled that of the pros. During the Rapids versus the Mean Machines game the soccer ball was driven up and down the pitch and each player gave their absolute best effort. “These little ones just keep going and going,” added Valadez. “I’m not sure how many goals we made, but the ones we made were in the right goal, so I’m happy.”

Even though neither team was declared the victor, the winners, were all who had an opportunity to enjoy this fine exhibition of soccer, with an extra flavor of good sportsmanship shown by both teams at the end of the game.

Gooooallll!