A Slice Of Gig Harbor Family Life

One of the most endearing qualities of the Gig Harbor community is the level of engagement in social events.  Family events are some of the most popular, and the 1^st Annual Harbor Soccer Kick-off & Appreciation Night definitely supported that notion.  The local youth soccer league has been in existence since 1982 and offers league play and skills training for age groups and ability levels ranging from Micro (4-5 year-olds) to Premier (up to 19 years old).  The first annual kick-off event brought over 1400 people out to Sehmel Homestead Park to celebrate the beginning of another season and to celebrate one of the staples of family life in the area – youth sports.

The event had its star-power, with Tacoma Stars Goalkeeper Danny Waltman and all-time Seattle Sounders star Steve Zakuani signing autographs and meeting fans.  One of the definite highlights was the inspirational talk delivered by 2009 MLS #1 overall draft pick Steve Zakuani.  He has faced some tremendous difficulty in his climb to the top of the US soccer world and he delivered a message of goal-setting and perseverance that perfectly underscored the beginning of the new season.  The address may have been directed at the players, but the message of determination and commitment resonated with everyone in attendance.  For more info on Steve Zakuani and his current endeavors, click here.  For more on his soccer career and amazing story, check out his book 500 Days.                                              

“But….what about music – and food?!” you ask – Yep, Sounds Like Dolores crushed it on the main stage while those in attendance soaked in the sounds from the beer garden and beyond. And, along with music, no true Gig Harbor event would occur without amazing food and drink provided by local businesses – that just doesn’t happen!  There were plenty of choices from endless hotdog options to two of my favorites- Rib Ticklers' awesome BBQ and The Hub, offering some of their great pizza!  The 3-on-3 soccer tournament, dunk tank, soccer shoot-out, balloon animals, etc. rounded out the festival experience.  It was definitely a great event and really indicative of the Gig Harbor experience.  The park was teeming with people excited to celebrate the beginning of a family commitment to the season and enjoy one another’s company at the same time.  Community, fun and great food are woven into the fabric of Gig Harbor.  Harbor Soccer brought all of those elements out in a perfect celebration of the beginning of the season.  ~This is one of the ways you truly live the south sound!