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By Daniel Curtin
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Members of the community were out at Hunnewell Fields for Wellesley’s 24 Hours of Barefoot Soccer last weekend. Battling the elements and other soccer players, participants in annual event raised money for Grassroots Soccer, an organization spearheading efforts to prevent AIDS in Africa.
The event welcomed players of all skill levels and ages. Though the first few hours of play were accompanied by pouring rain, the poor weather conditions didn’t stop dozens of people from coming out on Saturday evening to play soccer and raise funds.
On the field, two different pairs of nets were set up: one of which was smaller for younger participants, and the other for more skilled players to scrimmage.
Organizers Bella Kogon and Isabelle Kressy both stayed at the field for the entire 24 hours of the event. Kressy believes that even though the weather, and their fatigue, presented obstacles, it was rewarding experience to give back.
Plenty of soccer balls were available for people to pass, juggle and score. Photos by Daniel Curtin
“I think it’s pretty cool, especially [considering] we had to stay up the whole night. I don’t know. It just makes you feel good [about yourself],” Kressy said.
The event provided soccer fans a chance to help make a positive impact - and a fun way to do community service.
“Just knowing that all this money goes to a great cause … It [makes it] really fun,” Kogon summed up.
For more information or to get involved with Grassroots Soccer, visit https://www.grassrootsoccer.org.
