<p>An Ambassadors Soccer Camp competitor tries to slip one past the goalkeeper on Friday at Sandstone Middle School.</p>

Soccer coaches from all over the world were at Sandstone Middle School in Hermiston last week, orchestrating a week-long camp for kids, teaching them the skills of the sport, teamwork and the word of the Bible.

Part of the Ambassadors in Sport program, 15 coaches shared their experiences with youth. They represented numerous countries, including Spain, Southeast Asia, Brazil, Zambia, the United States, Northern Ireland, Scotland, England, Switzerland and Holland every continent but Australia.

Based out of Cleveland, Ohio, the coaches went through training before shipping off to regional assignments for four weeks of camps. The international organization has similar projects in 22 different countries.

For a $130 fee, which goes directly to the Ambassadors program, kids go through drills, learn about faith, play games and participate in an end-of-week Hermiston World Cup.

Parents love it, said local event coordinator Fran Rice. We have kids come back who dont play soccer.

Rice said the camp is more than just soccer. Kids are taught the importance of character, not just in the sport, but in life. The phrase, No negativity is voiced by coaches before many drills in hopes of creating a positive atmosphere.

This year was the fourth year the camp has been in Hermiston. Since its start, however, participant numbers have dwindled from 92 to 71, according to Rice. The drop may be a result of a higher-than-usual cost for a camp, but Rice says the cultural experience kids receive is priceless.

To combat the decrease, payment plans have been set up for families.

All the coaches are fluent in English, and stay with host families during their travels. Rice said there are six host families in Hermiston this year. She is one of them.

The best part is that you get into their lives and get to know things you never knew about, Rice said.

Its the same for the camp participants, Rice says. Not often is youth exposed to cultures outside the U.S.

Andrew Ruddell, a coach from Northern Ireland, said the Ambassadors program has been one of the most rewarding things hes been a part of. The Bible-based camp brings the best out of kids, Ruddell said.

(Its about) spreading the word, planting a seed for the Lord to work upon, Ruddell said. People who are shy the first day make new friends.

Some coaches, such as Brazilian, Valmir, are former professional players. He played for clubs like Apucarana FC, CE Blumenau, National AC and Tombense FC. He finished his career in 2000.

With his pro years behind him, Valmir has dedicated himself to the Ambassadors in Sport program, and is committed to passing his experiences on to a younger generation.

Im very excited about this, Valmir said. Its wonderful because soccer joins every nation. Just one language is soccer.

Valmir think highly of Hermiston, too.

There are great people here, Valmir said. I wont forget this week.