Troy schools begin school year with new soccer program, new clubs

The seven Troy District 30-C schools are known for more than just their stellar academic programming. They also boast a wide variety of sports teams and extracurricular clubs, and this year, they have added a few more.

Boys’ and girls’ soccer teams are new to the district. In their first match, the boys’ varsity team defeated Richland, 6-2.

It’s been a popular offering in its first year, said Troy Athletic and Activities Director Meagan DeGroot, with 81 fifth- through eighth-grade boys trying out for 28 positions. Girls’ soccer is a spring sport.

“We found there was a very large need for soccer in our area,” DeGroot said. “Several parents have requested that Troy begin a soccer program. Many of the kids play competitive soccer, and they wanted it in our schools.”

The Shorewood Soccer League helped Troy measure, design and line a new soccer field behind Troy Middle School inside a current running track. Troy also began a soccer camp this summer for its students.

Troy Middle School has 18 sports and 33 clubs. William B. Orenic Intermediate School has 18 sports and 31 clubs.

New clubs this year include Debate Club and Strength Club. Also new this school year are Spanish clubs in every one of Troy’s five elementary schools.

“These are opportunities for our students to find their likes and to connect with other kids and other teachers in a different way than in their classrooms,” said Troy Assistant Athletic and Activities Director Mark Peter. “It’s another way for them to express themselves.”