TITUSVILLE — Laura Geyer is the quintessential “soccer mom.”
She started playing soccer when she was 4 years old. It was a childhood passion that grew into a family tradition.
Laura’s husband, Bart, shared her love of soccer. So, it was a no-brainer that they would introduce their children to the sport.
Their oldest son, Drew, began playing at age 5. He was a natural
“Drew likes competition, and he is a hard worker. He took to soccer very naturally,” Laura said.
As each of their four children grew, soccer was a common connection they made early in life. For the Geyers, it is a family bond that keeps them healthy and active, while learning about teamwork and competition. “Soccer is a great sport for youth because it grows with them,” Laura said.
“When they’re young, the field, the goal, and the ball are small; and the team is small, so everyone has the chance to kick the ball.
“As they get older, they play on a bigger field, the ball gets bigger, and more players are added to the team. By age 13, they are playing 11 on 11.
“Soccer keeps kids active. It teaches them how to be on a team and work with other people. They also learn to deal with success and disappointments. These are important life lessons,” Laura said.
Drew, who is now 12, Ciera, 11, Jake, 9, and Bret, 5, can’t imagine life without soccer. Since they were infants, a soccer field has been their playground.
“It’s so much fun, and we get to be together as a family,” Ciera said.
Laura and Bart currently coach the Titusville Titans, a co-ed competitive team, at Chain of Lakes Recreation Complex in Titusville. Ciera and Jake play on the team, and Drew often provides motivational support as an extra team member.
Drew is also on a Central Brevard Soccer team on Merritt Island.
“It’s more of a challenge for me. But it’s fun. It’s hard work, but it’s fun,” Drew said.
Bret likes to accentuate the fun. “We never get upset. We just pass the ball to each other,” he said.
Overall, the family agrees that soccer is the sport for them.
“It’s just a very exciting sport,” said Jake.
“Kids who play sports learn to be more focused and how to handle pressure. It also keeps them physically fit in a time when childhood obesity is a major problem,” Laura said.
So, if you’re looking for the Geyers, check the soccer field. This family is on the move.
