More than 580 young soccer players -- and their families -- have been in Batavia the past two days for New York State West Olympic Development Program showing coaches what they can do on the field.
All of young players -- from age 12 up -- are Olympic hopefuls. The national program helps identify promising young players and develop the best players into potential U.S. Olympic Team members.
The program in Batavia draws players from all points in New York west of the I-81, including Watertown, Binghamton and Dunkirk.
Ted Hawley, who acts as host for the event, noted the economic impact of the program is significant because the families are staying in Batavia hotels and eating in Batavia restaurants.
The event is held at both the Batavia Sports Park off Bank Street Road and at Genesee Community College.
