Capitalizing on 20 years of world-class soccer and a new STEM academy, Starfire aims to multiply impact on community youth
TUKWILA, WashโJune 14, 2024โStarfire Sports, widely recognized for bringing world-class soccer programs to youth and families, announced today a new emphasis on its already successful community outreach programs. The newly appointed CEO, Eric Olmstead, will take Starfire beyond its lauded STEM Academy program and launch new youth enrichment programs. Olmstead takes the helm on July 8th.
About Starfireโs new focus, Eric Olmstead said: โStarfire will increase our community programs and outreach efforts. We will actively seek the support of local government, philanthropic organizations, and businessesโbecause we are confident that by working together, we can increase opportunities for todayโs youth. Soccer was just the beginning.โ
Starfireโs initial success beyond soccer has been impressive. Parents report that their children enrolled in Starfireโs after-school STEM program showed marked improvement in general science knowledge, problem-solving skills, collaboration and teamwork, as well as having more positive relationships with mentors and teachers due to Starfireโs innovative approach that inspires todayโs youth.
โI have seen kids’ enthusiasm for Starfire,โ said City of Tukwila Mayor Thomas McLeod. โThe excitement begins when they play on the same fields as their favorite athletes and carries over to engaging STEM classes. Starfire has done a great job making these programs accessible to all families. I look forward to working with Eric and Starfire on expanded programs for our diverse community.โ
Starfireโs exceptional campus โ used by the Seattle Sounders FC, the Seattle Reign FC, and Seattle Seawolves Rugby teamโ brought professional recognition to its youth programs but never changed Starfireโs fundamental mission: to connect with the community and empower youth to seize opportunity. Christopher Slatt, Starfireโs Co-founder and Executive Chairman, explains that the next Starfire phase comes as a direct result of this successful 20-year history and unwavering resolve to serve the local community.
โEric is no stranger to Starfire,โ said Christopher Slatt. โAfter serving 8 years on Starfireโs board, he has a deep knowledge of Starfireโs programs, history, and community service mission. His commitment to Starfire, coupled with his extensive experience building relationshipsโuniquely qualifies him to usher in this new era of community programs at Starfire. Eric is the perfect person to drive Starfireโs next phase.โ
About Starfire Sports:
Starfire is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization delivering inclusive, world-class soccer experiences and social programs that inspire, encourage, and empower the thousands of youths who participate in our classes, leagues, jamborees, and sanctioned tournaments throughout the year. Starfireโs commitment to providing the community with access to world-class facilities and programs brings 1.3 million visits to the campus each year for soccer programs, the Starfire STEM Academy for Pre-K through sixth grade students, soccer tournaments, team practices and training, and amateur and professional games.
Contact:
Ashley Gregory
marketing@starfiresports.com