Family Spotlight: The Barrie Family - Challenge Team Experience

Meet Connor Barrie and his mom Jen, who have been part of the DC Way community since Connor was in Kindergarten. Connor plays on our Challenge Team, a recreational program that gives players the opportunity to compete at a higher level without the full-time commitment of travel soccer. We sat down with Connor and Jen to talk about their experience with the Challenge Teams.

How was your family's overall experience with the Challenge Teams?

Connor: What I really liked about it is that we got to play teams from different leagues, like the travel teams. I met a lot of new people, and I'm really looking forward to next season.

What was the most memorable moment for your player during this experience?

Connor: When I scored a hat trick!

How do you feel the Challenge Teams helped your child grow on and off the field?

Connor: It was definitely more of a challenge, because we were playing teams at a higher level than us, so we had to play our hardest at every game.

What did you enjoy most as a parent/family being part of this journey?

Jen: We enjoyed the challenge level, because it gave Connor opportunities to play outside of rec league without the full time and commitment of a travel team.

How long have you known DC Way Academy and what made you decide to be part of our club?

Connor: Off and on since Kindergarten plus attending camps. After time playing with another league, I came back to DC Way to try the challenge league so I'd have new chances to play with people at the same level or better than me to help me improve my skills.

In one word or sentence, how would you describe being part of our Challenge Teams?

Connor: Joyful!

What message would you share with new families joining the club?

Jen: DC Way has expanded their offerings so that it feels like there is an option for every kind of player and varied levels of time and commitment. Everyone is welcoming, and it's a great way to play with friends from school or make new friends.

A perfect example of how Challenge Teams provide the right balance of competition and flexibility for families!