Men's Soccer | 12/18/2025 12:25:00 PM

Cleveland, Ohio – Last month, the Oberlin College men's soccer team joined forces with America SCORES to host their annual Cleveland Poetry SLAM! at Cleveland State University.
 
According to their website, "The annual America SCORES Cleveland Poetry SLAM! showcases the power of poetry and teamwork while celebrating the achievements of our outstanding elementary and middle school youth."
 
Ranging from third to fifth grade, dozens of school children and their soccer coaches from the greater Cleveland community took center stage and performed original poetry pieces to an audience of family, teachers, community leaders, and America SCORES partners.
 
"I had a great time at the Poetry Slam." First-year Orlando Popkin was one of ten members of the soccer team to help run in the event. "My favorite part was the group performances given by each team because it showed the time and effort the kids put into practicing for the performance. It is meaningful to me to spend time serving the community because it helps me feel more connected to my new home and because it can make a kid's day brighter."
 
Head Coach Blake New stated, "I am really proud of the team for getting involved with America SCORES. One of the great things about Oberlin is that you can have so many wonderful experiences outside of the classroom or soccer field, and this is just one example of how fulfilling those experiences can be."
 
New adds that he hopes the team can continue working with America SCORES and make it a recurring opportunity to engage and connect with the local community. Popkin adds, "Volunteering with my teammates was a great experience because it made us feel close as a team, and it is good for us to work together outside of the pitch."
 
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