Barrington, RI – Yesterday, Rhode Island FC joined campers at The Bayside Y’s Camp Manitoo for a fun-filled afternoon of soccer activities. The event included a visit from Rhode Island FC mascot – Chip the harbor seal – and a pick-up soccer match with campers led by Rhode Island FC midfielders Clay Holstad and Marc Ybarra.
“The Bayside Y is super grateful to Marc and Clay from Rhode Island FC for taking the time to play soccer with our members in our net sports summer camp. This experience is something that our campers will hold on to for years to come,” said Ryan Queenan, Bayside Y Executive Director.
“We had a great time spending the afternoon playing soccer with everyone at the Bayside YMCA in Barrington,” said Marc Ybarra, Rhode Island FC Midfielder.
Rhode Island FC, the Ocean State’s only professional soccer team, is headquartered in Pawtucket, RI. The club made its USL Championship debut in March 2024 in its temporary venue, Beirne Stadium on the campus of Bryant University, while its permanent home stadium is completed for the 2025 season. The Stadium at Tidewater Landing in downtown Pawtucket will be a state-of-the-art, soccer-specific stadium with a 10,500+ capacity. The USL Championship is one of the most successful professional soccer leagues in the world, reaching a population of more than 84 million and fueling the growth of the game across North America.
“We were thrilled to have Rhode Island FC visit Camp Manitoo at the Bayside Y. Their presence has not only provided our campers with an unforgettable soccer experience but also highlighted the importance of community partnerships and role models for our youth. These connections inspire our children and help them grow in confidence, teamwork, and passion. We look forward to many more collaborations with Rhode Island FC,” said Karen Santilli, CEO of The Greater Providence Y.
To learn more about summer camp and childcare programming with the Greater Providence Y, visit https://ymcagreaterprovidence.org/programs/camp/.
– L to R: Ryan Queenan, executive director of Bayside YMCA; Marc Ybarra; Clay Holstad; and Greg Jaroma, assistant camp director, Bayside YMCA.
About GPYMCA
GPYMCA includes six branch locations across Rhode Island and in Seekonk, Massachusetts, plus Providence Youth Services, Camp Fuller, and the Shooting Stars School of Dance in Seekonk. The organization provides programs for Rhode Islanders and Massachusetts residents of all ages and supports equitable access to health, fitness, recreational, and other services. In addition, GPYMCA supports high-quality out-of-school time programs and other community-based approaches to delivering health and wellness opportunities, academic enrichment and achievement, and youth development skills.
