Welcome to the home of the Silver Lake Soccer Academy. Recreational and Travel Soccer programs for Boys and Girls. Servicing Staten Island NY youth soccer since 1970. Home to nine New York State Cup Championships Read more about the Silver Lake Soccer Academy ...
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[Top] History of Silver Lake Soccer Silver Lake Soccer was founded in 1970 by Dr. Gabriel Nigrin and Mr. Vladimir Adzemovic as a way to bring soccer opportunities to their own children. Back in 1970, if a child wanted to kick the spotted ball on Staten Island NY, he or she could only do so in Fred Muche's Kiwanis League for a few weeks in the fall, and only up until the ripe old age of 13. Outside those parameters, children played football or checkers or read. "I felt children should be able to play more often, at all ages and all levels," said Dr. Nigrin, who introduced the game to his own sons. "Initially, I was just looking for an outlet to allow my children to play. We were playing against Mount Loretto who were quite strong for the Kiwanis league. We later found out they were playing in the local Kiwanis in the morning, and later in the afternoon playing also in the German American Soccer League". Dr. Nigrin and Mr. Adzemovic later approached the German American Soccer League and decided to enter an under 15 "Juvenile" team. After a few years the German American League became the Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (approx. 1975). As a result of the higher degree of competition that resulted, they felt that it would be beneficial for Staten Island-area children to have similar experiences. It was decided that an opportunity for lesser experienced children was needed, so a new intramural league was devised where children were allowed to play locally. This program, in order to offer a soccer experience that would give immeasurable educational, social and moral benefits to our area youngsters, became quite large as many parishes and other organizations signed on. As the recreational program grew, the Staten Island League Intramural Soccer League, with Dr. James Halligan as president was formed. Consequently, with the local league in full swing, the Silver Lake SC made a move to focus primarily on the traveling competitive league, and retracted from the responsibilities of the intramural program. As the result of the organizations's commitment to high standards, many graduates of the Silver Lake SC program obtained scholastic university and college scholarships. Club players also fed the ODP (Olympic Developmental Program of NYS) of which a few players made the ODP regional program for Eastern United States. Some players when on to play semi-professional and one player John Wolyniec when on to play with the NY MetroStars, the Columbus Crew as well as the United States National team. In 1992, Silver Lake Soccer initiated a foreign exchange program with Club Sportif du Blanc-Mesnil of Paris, France. Silver Lake Soccer visited Paris, France on two occasions and returned the privilege to it's French counter parts. Silver Lake Soccer teams at different ages levels have won the State Cup Championship won many state tournaments, and is regarded today as one of the most competitive soccer programs in the state and region. The Silver Lake Academy was created in 2005 as the recreational affiliate of Silver Lake Soccer. In June of 2009, a decision was made to offer a travel soccer program through Silver Lake Academy. Some teams from Silver Lake Soccer have decided to transfer into the Silver Lake Academy travel soccer program. In addition, the founder of Silver Lake Soccer, Doctor Nigrin, who created that club in 1970, has decided to end his affiliation with the Silver Lake Soccer Club and support the new Silver Lake Academy travel soccer program (Read Doc's Corner below). [Top] A New Branch Grows From An Old Tree It is with fond memories that I look back to 1970 when my son Albert suggested that I form a soccer club so that he and his brothers could play the game they enjoyed the most. Many years have gone by, leaving a path of glory and joy as well as difficulties and obstacles that had to be overcome. The best reward I receive is when I meet former players who still remember the good times they had participating on our Silver Lake Soccer Club, and who now bring their own children to play. I still enjoy being on the soccer field, watching youngsters develop their skills, and learn how to play the game on a team with a competitive spirit. However, what I see in the soccer youth development programs of today does not particularly please me. The volunteer spirit that prevailed in the past is practically non-existent in this day and age. The professional training that is supposed to develop players does not achieve results that are commensurate with the expense parents have to endure. Unfortunately, division, dissention and the lack of common goals have greatly impacted the current status of our Club. I do not have resentment or bad feelings toward anyone. However, I feel that I cannot continue to be part of the Silver Lake Soccer Club, where divisiveness and a lack of unity currently prevails. There is hope, however, as a new branch has grown from an old tree. Those who share the Club's traditional volunteer philosophy and ambition have come forward, and have started a new and healthy group with new direction and creativity. This group is joining the existing Silver Lake Academy, which for the past few years has been the recreational arm of the Silver Lake Soccer Club. This collaboration will introduce the Silver Lake Academy as a member of the Cosmopolitan Soccer League, and offer travel opportunities to young players who are ready for a higher level of play. I am pleased to join the members of Silver Lake Academy. I have chosen to follow them in their endeavors and to give them all the support they need. I trust in their ability and enthusiasm and truly believe that the great spirit of our Club will once again prevail. I have always been an advocate for children. As a pediatrician, I have looked after their physical, emotional, and social well-being. In the same way, through the sport of soccer, I have been able to give many youngsters the opportunity to grow both as good athletes and as good people. As long as I can, I will not let them down. Dr. Gabriel Nigrin
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DOC'S e-CORNER
