Third Annual Soccer Camp Provides Fun, Guidance for Kids
By Eric Fish

Drago Dumbovic and participants in Mackinac Island's third annual soccer camp pose for a group photo. The camp lasts for three days and teaches children of all ages the fundamentals of soccer through drills and scrimmages.

For the third consecutive year, students from Mackinac Island Public School and neighboring mainland schools gathered at Great Turtle Park June 11 to June 13 for three days of afternoon soccer camp. It is sponsored by Saginaw Valley State University, Mackinac Island Public School, the City of Mackinac Island Recreation Department, and Chippewa Hotel.

Organized by Lakers head soccer coach Ken Straight and instructed by Saginaw Valley State University Director of Soccer and former professional Drago Dumbovic, the camp has enjoyed its share of success.

"We just love it," said Mr. Dumbovic, who is also the head coach of the women's soccer team at Saginaw Valley State. "To have a camp on Mackinac Island is just exciting."

He is originally from Croatia, and began a professional soccer career, spanning 23 years, at the age of 16 in Yugoslavia. He came to the United States in 1983 and played for several teams, including the Detroit Neon and Detroit Rockers. Mr. Dumbovic ended his playing days in 1999 and, after a brief stint as coach of the Rockers, landed at Saginaw Valley State.

His charisma and professional coaching techniques, Mr. Straight said, have made him a favorite among the children.

"Some are just better teachers than others," Mr. Straight noted, "and he's an excellent teacher."

With help from several Saginaw Valley State players, Mr. Dumbovic teaches the children shooting, dribbling with their feet, passing, and cutting, and conducts several scrimmages.

"We are teaching them a lot of different skills and all aspects of the game," Mr. Dumbovic said.

The camp is limited to 30 participants to ensure personal instruction, which is the way Mr. Dumbovic wants to keep it. The children range in age from elementary to high school.

"They're just great kids and they're one of the reasons why we love coming to the Island," he said. "Personally, for me, I just love it. I cannot wait to come here."

Several of the children are repeat participants, with a handful have attended all three years.

"We really have a good time," Mr. Dumbovic said.