by Michael Lewis

The Get on the Bus program was launched at Moylan School in Hartford, Conn. (Photo courtesy of the CJSA)

HARTFORD, Conn. – The Connecticut Junior Soccer Association has announced that it is assisting with the launch of a Get on the Bus Afterschool Program at the Expeditionary Learning Academy at Moylan School in Hartford, Conn.

The CJSA received a grant as part of the U.S. Soccer Federation’s Innovate to Grow Initiative, and the state association is now directing funds from the grant to help launch this free program for the Hartford community.

“We are extremely excited to be able to launch the Get on the Bus Program at the Expeditionary Learning Academy at Moylan School, and we look forward to making it a great success,” CJSA executive director Josh Krusewski said in a statement. “We have great partners in the Get on the Bus Program as well as those at the Moylan School, and we are positive that this program will be impactful for all involved.”

Get On the Bus breaks down financial and transportation barriers so kids can play recreational soccer on a team in their community while also learning valuable life skills and good study habits. Headquartered in Maryland, Get on the Bus operates various chapters throughout the country and is also undergoing international expansion into Mexico as well.

“We are thrilled to bring the Get on the Bus Program to Connecticut this spring,” Tim Ryerson, Director of Chapter Management for Get on the Bus, said in a statement. “We have been working since before COVID to offer this opportunity afforded by the Innovate to Grow Fund Grant from the United States Soccer Federation. We are looking forward to working with Josh and CJSA to roll this out in Hartford.”

Through the Get on the Bus Program, young athletes are selected based on need and merit to receive a variety of items completely free of charge. Among the free activities that are provided include homework assistance and a study hall with certified teachers and para-educators, a healthy snack, and transportation by bus to and from the soccer field to participate in a recreational soccer program. On the soccer field, players will be guided by licensed youth coaches following U.S. Soccer age-appropriate guidelines. Additionally, soccer gear and apparel such as jerseys, shorts, socks, shin guards, cleats and soccer balls will be provided.

To learn more about the Get on the Bus Afterschool Program at Expeditionary Learning Academy at Moylan School, or to find out how you can get involved, please reach out to the CJSA State Office by calling (860) 676-1161 or via email at office@cjsa.org.