Goal Met with Starfinder's Manayunk Mural

"Golazo," or goal evokes many different connotations in soccer. While soccer is large component of the program at Manayunk's Starfinder Foundation, youth celebrate a different milestone Friday.

After working for two years with the help of 600 kids, Starfinder debuted a 200-foot ceramic mural along its Main Street facade, depicting soccer shields from national and professional clubs.

"I've been in soccer my whole life and I've never heard of 'golazo' until recently... And I know now that this project represents a big, hairy, audacious goal," Starfinder's Stephen Baumann said. 

In addition to providing a free soccer program to area boys and girls, Starfinder balances athletics with other disciplines, including history, nutrition and arts—with this project a culmination of the latter effort.

"This is a testament and a reinforcement of what Starfinder believes. That persistence, having a dream and delayed gratification" can help you meet a goal," he said.

Xavier Zambrana long worked on the project. The student said the project allowed everyone to pitch in a variety of ways.

"Some people worked on painting the tiles. Some had more fun breaking or crushing them. It was cool that so many people could help," he said.

The project began in July 2010, with muralist Baily Cypress aided the students along the way. The teamwork resulted in the largest mural of her career, she said.

Starfinder players excitedly posed in front of countries important to them Friday. Natives from Sierra Leone and Liberia embraced their nationalities, others from Portugal, Sweden, and Ireland celebrate their heritage. 

Additionally, pro soccer player and Philly native Chris Albright represented the Philadelphia Union.

"I grew up in the city, and it's a great experience here to give so many kids a chance to play soccer," he said.

Visit Starfinder's website for more information.