The Future Nighthawks Girls’ Soccer Camp hosted a four-morning session at Treadwell Memorial Park from July 7-10.

Alongside Adam Bourret, the Nighthawks’ girls’ soccer head coach, current high school players trained campers, ages 8-15, aiming to enhance future talent.

For beginners and experienced players, the program offered engaging drills, tactical training, and friendly matches, while participants made new friends.

“It’s a great way to see the progression, to see where you start and where your ultimate goal is, as well as having players from the high school here to be examples and role models and show the younger players what it’s like to be a Newtown player,” Bourret said.

The importance of introducing the sport at a young age is crucial. However, practicing is the key to improving and standing out.

“I think the fact that these girls are here and they’re playing together with their classmates and peers and having fun, enjoying the game [means they will] stick with it,” Bourret said.

“At that point one of our focuses through this camp is to give them ideas in different opportunities, things that you can do at home to get better, because if you’re not doing things on your own, then you’re not really going to be improving,” Bourret added.

This is a great opportunity for incoming freshmen to introduce themselves to the Nighthawks’ coaching staff, allowing them to understand everyone’s play style. Additionally, working with the current high school team gives a welcoming feeling ahead of tryouts.

The camp not only trains the younger generation but also prepares the varsity players for the upcoming campaign. Additionally, varsity players get to know the younger players who help out along the sidelines during their games.

“They’ll [high school players] pop in and play with the older group, so they’re getting extra touches on the ball and getting the chance to work with the younger generation and build relationships because these girls are ball girls during the season,” Bourret said.

Tyler Pruneau is a journalism student at University of Connecticut interning with The Newtown Bee this summer. He can be reached at intern@thebee.com.