ParkTalk Podcast: Naperville Youth Soccer: 50 Years of Recreation

Thursday, March 5, 2026

Episode Description:

As the Naperville Park District celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Naperville Youth Soccer program, Soccer Coordinator Betsy Nyman discusses program traditions, how it has evolved, and her own personal connection to the program.

Quotes from the Episode:

Favorite memory as a former Naperville Youth Soccer participant?

What I remember most from it is walking to the park, sometimes with a neighbor kid, and just running around and having fun kicking the ball. The moms would bring out a Tupperware pitcher of water in little Dixie cups and an orange slice! It’s funny what you remember as a kid. It’s those flashbulb memories, and as you get older some shine a lot brighter. – Betsy Nyman

How will Naperville Youth Soccer continue to evolve?

What I think I’ll continue to see over time is the parents getting involved. One of the things I’m starting to notice now is not only parents but sometimes grandparents are getting involved in coaching. As the program continues to grow, I hope we will continue to have more parks and more facilities and more locations as the Park District tries to service as many place in the community as we possibly can. I don’t see this as being anything but positive for the whole town. – Betsy Nyman