The latest version is the Red Bulls of the MLS and they have set up a program of instructional and competitive camps that will be brought to interested communities. In early August, one such camp was held at Greenview Park in Pequannock and by the looks of the number of participants, the camp seemed to be a hit.

"There’s been 42 registered for the camp which is encouraging for the first year that this camp has been run in this community," says Coach Andy Di Duca. "The ages start at five and six years old and go all the way up to 12 years old."

These camps are the only ones in the area that are operated directly by a professional soccer team. The programs have been designed by professional soccer experts to meet the needs of young players regardless of age and level of skill. Additionally, all campers get the opportunity to attend a Red Bulls game for free and play on the field prior to the game.

"We have a camp reunion opportunity where the kids can come watch the games at Giants Stadium so they can watch live soccer," says Di Duca. "In America, soccer isn’t very exposed as much on television as football, baseball, and basketball so by coming down, they can picture what they can achieve."

The key to the camp is to make sure the attendees are having fun. Once that is secured, they will be taught the little things that can help them become better players.

"We want them to mainly have fun. If they’re happy then they are going to be productive in what goes on," says Di Duca. "This being a community based camp we try to make it as much fun as possible by engaging the kids."

Reaching out to the community is a way that a team, trying to build a fan base, can cultivate young fans with the hopes of keeping them, as they get older.

"We’re in the community to try and build a relationship with the Red Bulls. Our main aim is to get them to love the sport and recognize the Red Bulls work within here," says Di Duca.