Parents Laud Smithfield High Student's Kindness

To The Editor:

Our 6-year-old daughter, Madison, has developmental and intellectual challenges that require special attention. None of these issues stop her from being an active, happy little girl. She takes her challenges head-on and does her best to achieve the most.  

An active girl participating in therapeutic horseback riding, Challenger baseball, music therapy, tutoring and dance, her favorite activity is soccer. She plays in the TOPSoccer program through the Smithfield Youth Soccer Association. We’re not sure she plays because she loves the game or because she gets to see her “buddy” Stephanie Ricci every Sunday afternoon.  

Recently, Stephanie was recognized as the TOPSoccer Volunteer of the Year at Soccer RI’s Annual Awards and Hall of Fame Dinner. We can’t imagine anyone more deserving of the award. Although she plays on Smithfield High School’s State Championship Soccer Team and referees games for the SYSA, she is there every Sunday for the TOPSoccer game. She doesn’t have to be there, she wants to be. Stephanie’s affection for the kids and desire for them to succeed and have fun is obvious.  

We were extremely touched when Stephanie invited Madison to attend Soccer RI’s Annual Awards and Hall of Fame Dinner. Madison served as Stephanie’s escort as she accepted the award. Madison had so much fun with Stephanie and her parents, she stayed for the entire event!

We have seen Madison grow through this program, especially through her relationship with Stephanie, for which we are extremely grateful.

Thank you to the Smithfield Youth Soccer Association for offering TOPSoccer, Adel Cabral for Coaching, and to Sue and Cliff Baron for coordinating all efforts and to all of the ‘buddies’ who volunteer their time to make playing soccer possible and so enjoyable for all players.

Congratulations to Stephanie for earning TOPSoccer Volunteer of the Year. Most of all, thank you for being our daughter’s friend.

Sincerely,

Jeff and Laura Swallow

Smithfield