While still an eighth-grader, Connor White '19, started a nonprofit called Freekicks to provide soccer balls and equipment to refugees and other underserved communities. Soccer was an important part of Connor's life and he wanted any young person who loved the game to have the right equipment. Eight years later, Freekicks is still alive and well, now under the capable direction of Connor's younger brother, Matthew '23.
Connor, now a senior at the University of Virginia where he is co-president of the UVA men's soccer club, remains on the website as founder, but Matthew has taken charge as Freekicks' president. It's a job he does very well, despite his considerable academic and athletic responsibilities — Matthew has a 4.4 weighted GPA and is a captain of Brophy's varsity soccer team where he has contributed 13 goals as of the publication of this article.
Anyone who has new or gently used soccer equipment can notify Matthew via the Freekicks website. He has worked with the Welcome to America Project and Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos, among others, in the distribution of equipment. The Freekicks' mission statement:
Freekicks is dedicated to making a difference in children’s lives and communities locally and globally by giving them donated gently used or new soccer equipment, giving kids a free kick, the chance to play soccer. We find inner strength and joy when we come together as ONE WORLD to bring communities together and enhance the lives of children through soccer, which is universally healthy for the mind, body, and soul.
For more information on Connor, Matthew and Freekicks:
Brophy College Preparatory celebrated its 76th commencement on Saturday, May 18, at 9 a.m. in Robson Gymnasium. This graduation was significant for the Class of 2024, who began their high school journey remotely due to the pandemic.
The Class of 2024 demonstrated resilience and connection despite the challenges of starting their education online. Their unity and adaptability were evident throughout their time at Brophy, embodying their class theme: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Valedictorian Doer Leo He delivered a memorable speech, drawing parallels to the movie "Finding Nemo" and encouraging his classmates to persevere with the phrase, "Just keep swimming." President Bob Ryan and Principal Jim Bopp also spoke, highlighting the graduates' resilience and urging them to be agents of positive change.
The ceremony concluded with a strong sense of pride and accomplishment, celebrating the Class of 2024's journey from remote learning to a united and triumphant graduation.