Interview: Inspiring Inclusion In Action

Cupello: Hello Coach Chelsea, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at the your club in Philadelphia?

Coach Chelsea: Of course, it's my pleasure. I've been involved with soccer for most of my life, both as a player and now as a coach. I'm currently the head coach of one of the youth teams at the the club, where I've been coaching for the past five years.

Cupello: That's fantastic. Can you share with us what inclusion means for you at your soccer club?

Coach Chelsea: Absolutely. For me, inclusion means creating an environment where every player feels welcome, valued, and supported regardless of their background, ability, or identity. It's about ensuring that all players have equal opportunities to participate, learn, and succeed in soccer.

Cupello: That's a wonderful perspective. How does your club go out of its way to be inclusive?

Coach Chelsea: At our club, inclusivity is a core value that guides everything we do. We actively seek out opportunities to promote diversity and create a supportive and welcoming environment for all players. One way we do this is by bringing in coaches and trainers who specialize in working with diverse groups of players, including those with disabilities or from underserved communities.

Cupello: That's impressive. Can you share any specific initiatives or programs that the club has implemented to promote inclusion?

Coach Chelsea: Certainly. One initiative that I'm particularly proud of is our partnership with local organizations that focus on providing soccer opportunities for underserved youth. Through this partnership, we're able to offer scholarships, free clinics, and coaching clinics to players who may not have access to organized soccer otherwise. Additionally, we've introduced diversity training for our coaching staff to ensure that we're equipped to support players from all backgrounds effectively.

Cupello: It sounds like the club is making great strides in fostering inclusivity. What impact have these initiatives had on the players and the broader community?

Coach Chelsea: The impact has been tremendous. We've seen players from diverse backgrounds come together, form friendships, and grow both on and off the field. By embracing inclusivity, we're not only creating better soccer players but also nurturing confident, empathetic, and resilient individuals who will make positive contributions to their communities.

Cupello: That's wonderful to hear. Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences with us, Coach Chelsea.

Coach Chelsea: It was my pleasure. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss such an important topic.