"Made For Kids".

Everyone has heard the stories. Absurd incidents of stress, pressure and even violence that plague children's sports.
The ultimate, of course, was the infamous "Hockey Dad," in Massachusetts who recently was convicted in the beating death of another parent.

Jack Hendrie, who has been involved in children's soccer for nearly 24 years, wasn't surprised when he heard that story."I've seen it all," Hendrie said. "I've seen profanity, violence, brawls, both benches unloading. I saw a teenage kid knock out a referee once. I've seen parents beat up each other and beat up referees. From the things I saw, it's a surprise someone didn't get killed."  

Deep down, Hendrie believed the high-pressure sports programs weren't the right way. And he did something about it.

Come and hear Jack Hendrie's story about creating a place where every child, whether they had played a long time or short time, whether they were a gifted athlete or not . . . where everyone could play.

Friday October 15, 2004 - 6:45am