New Jersey Youth Soccer recently hosted its 32nd Annual NJYS Awards Dinner Presented by RWJBarnabas Health, where many players, coaches and members of the soccer community were celebrated at the Pines Manor in Edison, N.J. One of those honorees was Rodrigo DaSilva, who was selected as the 2019 Liesel Krehan Volunteer of the Year.
The Liesel Krehan Volunteer of the Year Award is given to an individual who serves as a great role model to the soccer community, demonstrating a willingness to promote the game of soccer though their actions and individual character.
“It is an honor to receive this award. I truly feel that volunteers are the core of youth soccer,” said DaSilva. “We are a little club with big hearts, and our goal is to give everyone an opportunity to play ball. Our motto is don’t sit on the sidelines and say you’re going to do it. Do what you say you’re going to do.”
DaSilva volunteers his time at local recreation games and through SCP Youth Soccer, a club that he started in Union County. To soften the costs for families involved with SCP Youth Soccer, he regularly seeks sponsors and encourages parents and others to volunteer their time. DaSilva played soccer at a young age, but coaching is where he has truly been able to shine. His enthusiasm for the game affects virtually everyone around him, and he uses soccer as a vehicle to positively affect the lives of each young player he coaches.
DaSilva feels that a great youth soccer experience should be available to all children, regardless of age or ability. As a coach and club administrator, his main focus is to develop players who can be successful both on and off the field.
