Press Releases
MONTPELIER — It was one of those perfect early-fall Vermont weekends — sunny, crisp, and made for being outside. The conditions were ideal for the 14th Annual Bailey Memorial Jamboree, hosted by Capital Soccer Club, which brought together 85 teams and more than 1,000 young players from central Vermont and Chittenden County at the Stowe Events Field.
Created in memory of Liam and Solon Bailey of Barre, the Bailey Memorial Jamboree celebrates the boys’ spirit, playfulness, and love of being active with friends. Liam and Solon died in a house fire on Christmas Eve in 2009.
Liam and Solon attended Barre Town Middle and Elementary School, and their tragic passing has left a hole in both the school and in the community. Many remember Liam as an expressive, fun-loving boy who was full of intensity and passion, and a talented member of Capital Soccer’s Under 10 team. Solon, the more reserved of the two, is remembered as an accomplished pianist and a good friend to everybody.
The Jamboree is a non-results-oriented event, designed to give young players an opportunity to enjoy the game in a welcoming, family-friendly environment. The weekend emphasizes participation, sportsmanship, learning, and the simple joy of playing soccer.
Erik Schwarz, director of the Jamboree, said: “This weekend really represents the spirit of soccer in every way, the joy of playing and sharing our love of the game, and honoring the spirit of Liam and Solon, who loved to be with their friends. We hope this event will continue to inspire Vermont youth to have fun, play soccer, and live in the moment.”
For Capital Soccer Club, the Bailey Memorial Jamboree is more than a weekend of soccer. It is an opportunity for players, families, coaches, and communities to come together, celebrate the game, and remember two young boys whose lives continue to inspire others.
Capital Soccer Club strives to achieve soccer excellence in Vermont through quality instruction and competition in a challenging, supportive environment. Visit capitalsoccer.net for more.
