Nick Madaras was a graduate of the Wilton High School Class of 2005, and was an avid soccer player, coach and referee.  Nick was killed in Iraq on Sep 3, 2006 at only 19 years of age.  As a tribute to Nick and his involvement in soccer, Kick for Nick (an organization that collects donated soccer balls and distributes them to children in Iraq) was created in his honor.

To raise money and awareness for this charity, and to celebrate soccer as a lifetime sport that can bring people together, two local groups organized a commemorative exhibition match on Memorial Day.  MLS Camps provides coaches for the Wilton Boys Travel teams, as well as technical guidance for the Recreation programs.  The Wilton Ancient Warriors are a local Wilton men's team (boasting 8 nationalities on their roster) playing in the over-40 division of a state-wide soccer league.  This year, we are also hoping to field a 3rd team composed of Nick's high school teammates to participate in the challenge.

The match, Monday, May 25th (Memorial Day) at Kristine Lilly Field in Wilton will begin at 11:30am (after the town parade).  In addition to supporting these two charities, it will provide a unique opportunity for youth soccer players to take their turns on the sidelines, shouting helpful instructions and guidance to the coaches and parents who are often on the sidelines for their games.

There will be raffles for various prizes (equipment, tickets to professional matches, etc), and a Kick for Nick ball collection net (contribution to which will give automatic entry into a raffle).  Children are encouraged to wear their soccer uniforms to the match and will be eligible to be ball boys/girls for the match.

Attendees are also encouraged to contribute to the scholarship via cash or check at the match.  If you would like to contribute to this but cannot attend, please see the How You Can Help link at http://www.kickfornick.org.

 

(Please see the ESPN segment on Nick and his story here.