Tired of paying for expensive soccer clubs? Looking for a place for kids to play soccer just to have fun? Joy of the People (JOTP) has created a new youth sport model centered around having fun. In the process they have created an optimal learning environment for kids based on play where play becomes learning in disguise. The theory is based on the following facts: that kids are over-scheduled, that kids in youth sports are over-coached and over trained, that many young soccer players plateau or burn out before reaching their full potential. JOTP has created a center for community use where kids can participate in free play soccer. JOTP was put together under the idea that soccer is a game of life long skill mastery. The idea is that the best players have always developed by playing a lot – with and among friends. The simple idea is that players can come to one location for all they need – where the very best in skill development meets the excitement and energy of free play. JOTP intends to change the world and become the national model for developmental soccer. To learn more about the JOTP program go to www.joyofthepeople.org.
JOTP currently schedules 1000 hours of free play throughout the year. Their programs are open to all kids: players who play for clubs, players who want more, players who wish to better their skills. The only requirement is a signed parental waiver. Their main facility is location in St. Paul at 890 Cromwell Avenue at the South St. Anthony Recreation Center. The nearest intersection is Hwy 280 and University Avenue. Current Free play hours are M-Th, 3:30 – 6 p.m., Friday, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sundays (adults only) 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Click here for more information about Free Play.
