FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- It didn't matter if the children participating in the Experience, Develop, Grow and Excel program's indoor soccer tutorial had experience or not Dec. 13 at Fortenberry-Colton Physical Fitness Facility, they came to have fun and learn.

EDGE!, a free Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation program, provides youth with art, fitness, life skills and adventure activities, according to Denise Honeycutt, DFMWR partnership specialist.

During December, youth had the opportunity to learn indoor soccer from a former college-level player and coach, Jennifer Burns, EDGE! program assistant.

She said teaching is something she enjoys doing because it allows her to pass on her knowledge to children who might have never played the game before.

"I've played indoor soccer my whole life," Burns said. "It's really important to keep children active. I like showing them you don't have to be an expert in order to have fun with soccer."

Burns worked with the group of children, ranging in ages from 11 to 14, on passing, ball control and kicking. She said it was important to start with the basics.

"That's what indoor soccer is all about," she said. "You have to be able to have control of the ball."

After working with the students on drills, Burns divided the group into two teams for a scrimmage game to put the lessons into practice.

Scott Howard, 14, and his sister Jessica, 11, participated in the clinic and said it was a beneficial experience for them.

"I've played on several teams before," Scott said. "I haven't been able to play as much lately because I've had to move a lot."

Scott said working with Burns would be helpful if there is an indoor soccer league when his Family moves to Alaska next year.

"I hope there is because I really like playing and want to keep doing it," he said.

Honeycutt, also participated in the event by helping instruct and be part of one of the scrimmage teams.

"The children were thoroughly excited about this event," she said. "It's a chance to get some new children interested in playing and to expand on the skills of those who might have played before."

This was the final indoor soccer activity of the year, but future events are being planned, Honeycutt said.

For more information on upcoming EDGE! events, call 255-0666.