The SCORESheet, July 2021

SCORES CUP RETURNS!

PLAY ON! Preparations for the 2021 SCORES Cup are underway!! Chicago’s longest-running charity soccer event is set for Saturday, Aug. 28 at the CIBC Fire Pitch. We are proud to welcome back sponsors KPMG, Abbvie, CVS Health, Societe Generale, and Moelis! Sponsorship opportunities are still available, along with the opportunity for individual groups to form a team and register. Teams receive SCORES Cup jerseys, are guaranteed to play a minimum of three games (officiated by certified referees), and are treated to lunch and a post-tournament party with drinks!

For more information, please reach out to Ethan Armstrong at ejarmstrong@chicagoscores.org.

SUMMERTIME SMILES

America SCORES Chicago followed what was a challenging school year with a jam-packed series of programs being held throughout the summer. In addition to SCORES Day Camp at ChiTown Futbol, we are overseeing SCORES Literacy In Action programming in partner schools and have expanded the summer academy offerings of our 21st Century Community Learning Center sites by adding additional enrichment and academic activities including arts, dance, gardening, sport, and STEM.

"It's been truly incredible to see so many new and returning students joining for summer programming across the city," says Jess Mater, Director of Programs and Operations. "After a year and a half of mostly virtual programming, we are returning to in-person stronger than ever by providing more robust summer programming than we ever have before. We are really excited and grateful to be able to provide so many opportunities for connection and play at a time when our young people need it the most. Our team has really exemplified TLC in their planning and organization of summer programming!"

AMY THAYER

What would you say, you do here?
I am the Resource Coordinator at Pilsen Community Academy where I am in charge of planning all SCORES' programming at the school. I create different clubs and activities for students to join, am always looking for new opportunities for school time and out of school time activities, manage our staff, coaches and subcontractors, and work with community organizations and partners on bringing exciting new programs to the school.

Where do you call home?
I was born and raised in Naperville where I grew up as the youngest of six kids in my family. Right now I live in Oak Park but am moving to Pilsen in August!

Who do you cheer for?
I have to admit that I’m not a big professional sports fan so most my cheering is directed at my eight-year-old twin nieces who I scream my heart out for at their soccer matches and softball games.

What’s your favorite sports movie scene?
My favorite sports movie scene is probably the Big Poppa scene from Hardball. Miles is pitching and is nervous because he has to take off his lucky headphones and the crowd is going crazy. To calm him down and help him focus, the whole team starts singing, “I love it when you call me Big Poppa,” and he gets the last out!

Where are you bringing a tourist in Chicago?
I’m probably going to look for a street festival or concert first, and then I would bring them to one of the beaches or maybe even Ping Tom Park in Chinatown because it’s so beautiful.

What do you listen to on your commute?
Well right now since my AUX cord is broken I’m listening to my old random CDs and the radio, but I have the Flaming Lips, Missy Elliott, and Doja Cat in the current rotation.

What brought you to SCORES and what do you like about it?
I have always loved working in non-traditional environments with kids, but didn’t think it was my calling to go down the standard teaching or academic path. I had worked at summer camps that involved a number of things including sports and arts, so the enrichment aspect of SCORES really drew me in. The combination of kids getting outside of their bubble and performing poetry, along with the teamwork and camaraderie that comes from soccer, was the type of environment I wanted to be a part of. And I love Pilsen and its entire community. The school and SCORES are like a little family that energizes me and keeps me motivated and excited about what I do!

KWANZAA HAMILTON

The entire America SCORES Chicago community benefits from a number of committed and passionate individuals who work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of the young people we serve. Kwanzaa Hamilton, who passed away nearly a year ago on August 9, 2021, is one of those people. Known as a selfless, hardworking, and dedicated father who would go above and beyond to support and mentor anyone who needed him, Kwanzaa stood out as a model champion for SCORES and our poet-athletes. During his time as a SCORES coach, he demonstrated undeniable care and love for everyone around him. Kwanzaa worked tirelessly to develop strong bonds and relationships with his students and as a result was their biggest advocate and cheerleader. 
 
With a welcoming smile and an unmatched determination, students at LEARN 7 and LEARN 8 Middle School would show up to practices eagerly looking forward to his mentorship and tutelage through the conduit of soccer. He seamlessly demonstrated the significance of character building, leadership, and commitment. He was an outstanding co-worker who epitomized what team work truly looked like. Outside of his teaching and coaching professions, Kwanzaa had mastered being an amazing baker. With delicious cakes and pies, he knew exactly how to sweeten a challenging day amongst staff.   
 
His name is a Swahili word that means, “First Fruits.” We remember and thank Kwanzaa for yielding the first fruits of what it meant to be among the America Scores’ family – unity.  

Angela Mims
Resource Coordinator, LEARN 8 Middle School

BRIGHTER THAN FIRE

Some days life’s hard
and stabs deeper than a knife
When I see people fight, I just want to close my eyes
But when I’m with my team, they give me sight
Now I see everyone admire,
at first just a spark but together we’re on fire
At First I learned by watching others play
Dribble, pass, score!
As a team we can always win the day
Coach is the engine that powers our team
With dedication, inspiration and personality
Some days life’s hard and stabs deeper than a knife
But when I’m with my team
Everything feels alright

Nathan G.
4th Grade, Eli Whitney Elementary School

ON THE DOCKET

SCORES Cup  | CIBC Fire Pitch
Saturday, August 28

CPS Classes Begin
Monday, August 30

* Stay tuned for our complete fall program calendar