For cancer survivors, the journey doesn’t end when treatment is over. Recovery and survivorship bring their own set of challenges, both physical and emotional. Rebuilding strength, adjusting to a new normal, and navigating the emotional toll of cancer are ongoing struggles for many. Community initiatives like those offered by Cancer Kickers Soccer Club have emerged as a powerful tool in providing much-needed support for survivors. While not a physical sports program, Cancer Kickers brings the team spirit of soccer to life by fostering a supportive community where cancer survivors can connect with others and find a sense of belonging and mental resilience. Cancer Kickers is dedicated to providing children battling cancer, as well as those in remission, with comfort, community, and connection. Founded by Michelle and Chris Clothier, Cancer Kickers offers a unique combination of physical activity, emotional support, and a sense of team that helps cancer survivors navigate life after treatment. By connecting kids across the globe, Cancer Kickers builds a support network where no child or survivor has to face cancer alone. The Physical Benefits of Community Sports Cancer and its treatments can leave survivors feeling weak and fatigued for months, or even years, after treatment ends. Engaging in community sports can be an essential step in helping survivors rebuild their strength, improve endurance, and enhance overall physical health.  Through the Cancer Kickers community, survivors and their families are encouraged to rebuild their strength and improve their overall well-being by tapping into a network that values shared experiences and mutual encouragement. “One of the most important things we aim to provide is an opportunity for kids and survivors to feel like themselves again,” says Chris Clothier, co-founder of Cancer Kickers. “When they connect with us, they’re not just patients or cancer survivors—they’re part of a team with others who understand their journey.” Regular physical activity, like soccer, has been shown to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. According to the American Cancer Society, exercise helps lessen depression and anxiety, reduce fatigue, and improve immune function, all of which play a role in reducing the likelihood of cancer returning. For cancer survivors, staying active is not just about fitness—it’s about maintaining health and reducing future risks. Beyond the scientific benefits, sports provide a fun and engaging way for survivors to challenge themselves physically. Whether it’s making that crucial goal or simply running around with friends, soccer provides survivors with moments of joy, accomplishment, and confidence. Each game or practice represents a step forward in their recovery process, a moment of normalcy in what has often been a difficult journey. Emotional Healing Through Sports While the physical benefits of staying active are important, the emotional and psychological benefits are equally crucial. Cancer survivors often face anxiety, depression, and a sense of isolation after treatment. Cancer Kickers’s community provides an outlet for emotional healing by creating a safe space where survivors can connect with others who understand their experience. The team-like support offered by Cancer Kickers allows survivors to experience camaraderie and connection, helping them to overcome the isolation that often accompanies cancer treatment. The friendships and bonds formed within this community serve as a reminder that survivors are not alone in their journey. Michelle Clothier, co-founder of Cancer Kickers, highlights this connection: “At Cancer Kickers, we’re not just giving kids a jersey—we’re giving them a community. They get to be part of something bigger than themselves, where they can lean on others who know what they’re going through. It’s about more than soccer; it’s about feeling seen, heard, and supported.” For many survivors, the focus on teamwork helps them shift their attention from their past struggles to the present moment. Whether it’s scoring a goal or simply participating in practice, sports provide survivors with moments of joy and empowerment that contribute to their emotional recovery. Mental Resilience and Confidence For cancer survivors, one of the hardest parts of recovery can be overcoming the fear that comes with survivorship. Many survivors struggle with the lingering fear of recurrence, while others grapple with body image issues or self-doubt after enduring months of treatment. Cancer Kickers plays an important role in helping survivors build mental resilience and boost their confidence through sports. By participating in soccer, survivors can set goals that remind them of their strength and determination. Achieving milestones on the field contributes to a larger sense of self-worth and mental toughness. The mental resilience gained through sports helps survivors navigate the emotional ups and downs of survivorship, giving them the tools to face their fears head-on. The Lasting Impact of Cancer Kickers Cancer Kickers Soccer Club is more than just a non-profit—it’s a movement of hope and resilience. By combining the physical benefits of sports with emotional support and a sense of community, Cancer Kickers is making a lasting impact on the lives of cancer survivors and their families. Through the power of soccer, survivors find strength, courage, and connection, knowing they are part of a team that stands with them every step of the way. And as Chris Clothier puts it, “Cancer may be tough, but together, we’re tougher.” The post The Role of Community Sports in Supporting Cancer Survivors appeared first on LA Weekly.