The umbrellas and the puddles underfoot did nothing to dampen the spirits of the young soccer players who came out for closing ceremonies of the East York Soccer Club summer season on Saturday, September 7. In truth, they barely noticed! “Last time it rained on closing day, we cancelled the games and we really heard about it,” said EYSC President and Founder Dragan Zagar with a smile. “The kids weren’t happy about that at all!”

So the games went on, with strong attendance from all the Under 6 players, who arrived early for the games and then happily received their trophies for completing the season.

The smiles on the faces of the parents said it all. “This is a busy day for us, we’ve been driving our three boys to games all morning,” said Nancy DeHart with son Garrett, a member of one of the teams sponsored by the DVBIA. “We’re so proud of them.”

The dedicated contingent of EYSC volunteers stayed dry under a hastily erected tarp, and made sure all the players received their trophies. “We certainly had our share of rainy days this season,” said Dragan to the assembled athletes and parents, “but I’m so proud of everyone here and want to praise all the soccer players for coming out to the games rain or shine.”

Dragan made a point of thanking the Danforth Village BIA for its sponsorship of the club. The support provided by the DVBIA and other sponsors covers field permits, referee fees and helps defray the cost of uniforms. “We bring families together to play soccer from across the East York community, and yet not enough local organizations step forward to support our young people and sport,” said sponsorship coordinator, Karen Somerville. “That’s why we continue to be grateful for the ongoing sponsorship provided by DVBIA. You are a special organization to us!”