SABR Spring Season Wraps Up with Fun, Flexibility, and Friendship

By Gary Curreri

A Stress-Free Way to Keep Playing

Patrick Freeland, SABR’s Director of Girls’ Soccer, has been involved with the Spring League since it began five years ago.

“It gives the players more time on the ball in a no-stress environment,” Freeland said. “They get to play pickup-style soccer with their friends and try different positions.”

The Spring league includes boys and girls teams from U8 to U15. Freeland emphasizes that while it’s casual, it’s still competitive—if the players want it to be.

“They can play where they want on the field, with no pressure to win. The focus is on learning, effort, and having fun,” he said.

Young Players Embrace the Freedom

Dominic Lubbers, 9, dribbles upfield during a boys SABR Spring League game at Spanish River Athletic Park. The seven-week season wrapped up on Saturday. Photo by Gary Curreri

Nine-year-old Dominic Lubbers enjoys the chance to just play.

“I think it’s fun because you just play and it doesn’t matter if you win or lose,” he said. “There are no practices, it’s just games.”

His teammate, Jayce Rothman, also 9, appreciates the chance to explore new skills.

“You get to play different positions,” Rothman said. “I learned dribbling, kicking, and some other things.”

Volunteers Make It All Happen

Nicole Ackerman, SABR’s new Director of Boys’ Soccer, began as a volunteer with no soccer experience.

“This has been a rewarding experience,” said Ackerman, “I started volunteering to be involved in my son’s hobby and ended up learning everything season by season.”

Ackerman’s journey shows that you don’t need to be a former player to contribute meaningfully.

Mix-and-Match Format Builds Camaraderie

The Spring League’s structure encourages variety and teamwork. Players are placed on teams each week, wearing reversible jerseys—grey and blue for boys teams, red and white for girls teams.

“If a team is short, a player just flips their jersey and plays for the other side,” said volunteer coach Brian Rothman. “It’s flexible and fun. They’re learning different positions and playing with new teammates each week.”

Coaches and Refs Love the Atmosphere Too

Coach Kevin Hetherington says the relaxed atmosphere fosters creativity.

“There’s no pressure. Kids can try new positions like goalie or striker and just enjoy the game,” he said.

His son, Ford, agreed. “It’s pretty fun. There’s no pressure like the regular season and playoffs,” he said. “I get to play all over the field.”

Rachel Van Lith, a former Lynn University player, returned to the game as a coach.

“The Spring League brings the love back,” she said. “It’s great to see the kids work together, and the coaches and refs all support each other.”

Referees Gain Valuable Experience

SABR referee assignor Brian Behrman said many of the referees are teen players who use the Spring League to sharpen their skills.

“There’s no pressure, and it’s a great training ground for new referees,” Behrman said. “They can make mistakes and learn from them in a safe environment.”

The Season in a Snapshot

• Length: 7 weeks (April 4 – May 16)
• Schedule: Friday evenings or Saturday mornings
• Game Format: 1 game per week, pick-up style
• Eligibility: Open to current SABR fall/winter players and coaches
• Structure: No standings, no midweek practices, full referee crew
• Uniforms: Reversible jerseys for quick team balancing

If you have questions or feedback about the Spring League, email sabrinfo@sabrsoccer.net.

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