2020 Soccer Fall Season

Coordinators, Coaches and Parents of the Archdiocese of Baltimore Soccer Program

The Scriptures remind us that, “suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.” (Romans 5:4-5)     

This past few months have been a trying time for all of us to remain in hope as we seek to maintain the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health of our families and communities. This has been equally true for Archdiocesan parishes and schools as we make difficult decision with information that is changing frequently. We have sought even more the council of the Holy Spirit and the gifts of reason and intelligence given to us by God to make those difficult decisions.

With the guidance of that same Spirit this letter is to let you know the Archdiocesan Division of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, along with the Soccer Committee and in consultation with Office of Risk Management, has decided that there will not be an Archdiocese of Baltimore Soccer season for 2020. As a parish organized ministry that accepts parish and school youth alike, ABSP has made this decision to minimize the risk and exposure of our young people during an unprecedented and constantly changing global pandemic.

Some of our principle reasons for this decision are:

• Inability to successfully verify testing of both participants and coaches prior to activity
• Reality of close contact demanded by participation in the sport of soccer
• Desire to limit the exposure and interactions of young people to as few groupings as possible
• Difficulty in asymptomatic young people unknowingly and yet actively passing along Coronavirus to family and friends

ABSP exists because we know the impact that athletics can and does have on the lives of our young people. To train and compete to succeed as individuals and as a team not only builds strong Christian values, it also gives young people an opportunity to experience Christian friendship. We look forward to the 2021 season and a re-engagement of seeing our young people on the field being their best selves, coaches on the sideline as sports mentors and faith leaders and parents providing the hugs, high fives and snacks that makes this not just an activity, but a community.

Should you have any questions you may contact us at the information below.

Thank you for your dedication to young people and the ministry of athletics. We appreciate your understanding and the respect that you have and continue to demonstrate to the volunteers who make ABSP possible. May our God who loves us and cares for us keep you safe and in good health.

Sincerely,