On Saturday March 26th Just One Soccer League held an opening day celebration at Essex County College gymnasium in Newark, NJ. Just One Soccer League (also known as JOSL) strives to build stronger neighborhoods and develop community leaders by bringing players, parents/guardians, families, coaches and volunteers together through the impactful sport of soccer. All the city favorites were in attendance: Newark Mayor Cory Booker, Essex County Executive Joseph N. Divincenzo jr., Councilman Carlos M. Gonzalez and Senator Teresa Ruiz. Special guest and NY Red Bulls Assistant Coach Mike Petke was in attendance and Co Hosted the event alongside, Senator Teresa Ruiz and Just One Soccer League Director, Oscar Rodriguez.
The event turnout was a huge success. Team fans poured into the bleachers sitting patiently to catch a glimpse of their favorite teams. The event began with a greeting by Senator Ruiz. Next Oscar Rodriguez welcomed an upcoming local Hip Hop/ Neo Soul singer named “Orikl” to sing the National Anthem. His vocals blew the audience away. Finally, the fun began “Here come the Teams!” an onlooker shouted. Senator Teresa Ruiz & Mike Pekte took turns announcing the teams. Exploding out from the rear of the gym flew groups of cute little kids fully dressed in colorful uniforms. After the fourth team appeared, it became evident that this display was some type of parade where prancing, fun, thrills, excitement and the smell of good food was in the air. Mayor Cory Booker gave a great speech that revved up the audience and then he greeted each team. Mayor Booker also took turns running with his favorite teams and carrying members of those teams on his shoulders. I stood back and thought to myself “Wow he’s cool and I bet, he’s that kid’s hero!”
Special Thanks to Nelson Rodriguez (Just One Soccer League Events Coordinator), who invited me to this wonderful event. I had a great time.
Mayor Cory Booker & Singer Orikl
L-R NY Red Bulls Assistant Coach Mike Petke, Just One Soccer League Director, Oscar Rodriguez and NJ State Senator Teresa Ruiz 
The Masses
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