Today, City Council Majority Leader Jo-Ann Ryan (Ward 5), Providence Public School District Director of Operations Jason Menard, and Patrick Barbosa, the manager of Youth Programming for Bayside FC, announce a multi-year partnership to use the historic Conley Stadium for training sessions beginning this spring.
“I am thrilled that I was able to help facilitate this wonderful partnership here in mighty Ward 5. Over the past several years, I have dedicated and fought for funding to return the historic Conley Stadium to the state-of-art stadium that it is today. With that, we can create partnerships like this with Bayside FC to help support our Providence students’ athletic pursuits. Additionally, Bayside FC has also guaranteed that two scholarships will be offered to Providence young residents currently attending the Batastini Recreation Center. I can think of no better way to honor Armand Batastini Jr.’s legacy than ensuring that young people have access to great athletic programming. This partnership is proof that by working together, we can make a difference in the lives of our young residents.” – Majority Leader Jo-Ann Ryan
“We are indebted to the majority leader for bringing this high-value athletic program to the community, and we look forward to a productive partnership.” – Director Jason Menard, PPSD
Additionally, Majority Leader Ryan, Bayside FC, and the Batastini Recreation Center are exploring opportunities to bring more programming there in the coming months. There is a strong desire from Providence youth who attend the recreation center for more athletic programming, and soccer is at the top of their list.
“My father’s passion for ensuring that all residents of Providence have access to, and fully participate in, sports was endless. He would be thrilled to see our community creating this partnership as it provides a premier opportunity to those who attend Batastini Recreation Center. I want to thank Majority Leader Ryan, the Providence School Department, and Bayside FC for their joint commitment to the community. My father would be proud to know his legacy lives on.” – Maria Batastini Dell’Ovo
The Bayside FC Junior Academy offers boys and girls ages 4-10 the opportunity to build a solid foundation of technical skills and tactical understanding in a positive environment. The program’s goal is to use the environment to educate players on the game’s basics and grow their love of the sport. Players are guided to learn various new skills and fall in love with the ball by experienced and enthusiastic coaches.
“We are excited to join forces with the City of Providence. This partnership will offer young players opportunities to be introduced to the game while working with some of Rhode Island’s most reputable coaching staff. Bayside FC will be devoted to helping grow the soccer community in the City of Providence.” – Patrick Barbosa, Bayside FC
The training camps at Conley Stadium will be held this spring on Saturdays beginning March 27, 2021, from 9:00 am – 10:00 am for six weeks. Please note the first Saturday in April will be skipped due to the Easter Holiday.
The summer training camps will be held on Saturdays beginning May 15, 2021, from 9:00 am – 10:00 am for six weeks. Please note that the first Saturday in July is skipped due to the Fourth of July holiday. The cost of each six-week training program is $99.00.
Families can learn more about Providence-based Bayside FC training camps at Conley Stadium by visiting: www.baysidefc.com.
About Bayside FC:
Bayside FC was established in 1997 and is a highly successful premier club in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. With over 475 players in their program, their club is built on a healthy foundation of player development and success. They are Rhode Island’s premier soccer club.
