IMA SPORTS

When Matt Koop interviewed for the Maumee girls soccer head coaching job, Panthers athletic director Cam Coutcher told him about the sense of family in the community.

Just a few months into his tenure and before a game has kicked off, Koop said he has already felt that embrace.

On Saturday, Koop helped organize a fundraiser for the girls and boys soccer programs. The event, Panthers at the Pitch, featured games, live music, concessions and a movie at Kazmaier Stadium. Koop said they sold more than 600 tickets.

“It was overwhelming and unbelievable to see that support,” Koop said. “To see everyone come through the doors and the turnout on a beautiful night, I’m at a loss for words because it was awesome.”

He credited parents for stepping up to organize and run the event, allowing Koop and boys coach Chad Kain to enjoy the evening.

Support came in unexpected ways, too. When they were looking for an extension cord at the last minute, a mom at the gate offered to run home and grab one.

“Me coming into this community for the first time, I’ve lived a mile from here my whole life, now for the first time going, ‘Wow,’” Koop said. “They have embraced me in so many ways. It’s just amazing.”

In addition to games and concessions, the School of Rock Perrysburg band performed on the track.

“They really provided a nice tone to the entire event,” Koop said. “They sounded great. It was fun to watch.”

The evening ended with people putting down blankets on the turf at Kazmaier Stadium to watch the movie “Wonka.”

While Koop said there were some glitches and things to fix for next year, he added the event went 10 times better than he could have expected.

Reach IMA at insidemaumeeathletics@gmail.com