Prince George, B.C. – The Prince George School Board has approved a new soccer course.

Soccer Performance 10, a soccer-centered program aimed at developing the whole athlete and to enhance numerous skills including tactical game awareness and training habits, received unanimous support at last night’s Board meeting.

“It’s about the whole athlete, this isn’t about the game of soccer, it’s not about teaching the history of the game it’s a focus on soccer skills,” said Robert Lewis, a District teacher and developer of the course. “It’s a vehicle for a healthy lifestyle and wellness if they have a passion for soccer to give them a skill set to play this sport the rest of their lives.”

The course is set to run out of Duchess Park Secondary and has been built out of a partnership with the Prince George Youth Soccer Association.

However he also opened the door to other locations noting “it can be done in any open space. It gives flexibility and is not designed to be a one of school program.”

Trustees were eager to show their support.

“I believe soccer has been such an active sport in our community, to men and women in their later years.I can’t think of a better approach at a time when our students need more physical activity,” said Sharel Warrington.

“I too share a passion for soccer, it’s thrilling to see you put this together,” added Bruce Wiebe.

Lewis said the course will be available through regular course enrollment and will be run in the morning’s with a full class of 30 students.

It will be also be open to all levels though he noted “it’s designed for someone with an interest in soccer. It’s not an exploratory course.