⚽ SIU Soccer Heads to Marion Next Week for Evening Youth Camp
From June 9–12, the team will host an evening youth camp in Marion at the Marion Soccer Complex, running 5–8 p.m. each day for players ages 6–14 of all genders and skill levels.
The SIU Women’s Soccer program is making moves this summer — and not just on the field.
From June 9–12, the team will host an evening youth camp in Marion at the Marion Soccer Complex, running 5–8 p.m. each day for players ages 6–14 of all genders and skill levels. It's a key part of a broader push to grow the sport and connect with more families across Southern Illinois.
“We’ve had strong turnout in Carbondale, but there are so many communities outside of town that love this game,” said Head Coach Graeme Orr. “Marion gives us a great chance to meet new families, build relationships, and create something lasting."
The camp will be led by SIU’s coaching staff along with graduate assistants and current players. Beyond skill development and live play, campers will get to interact with student-athletes who are making an impact both on and off the field. So far this year, the team has logged 324+ hours of community service — a sign that the commitment runs deeper than the scoreboard.
Orr’s program is also turning heads on the pitch. The Salukis are fresh off a 4-0 spring season, including a big win over Indiana State, who eliminated them from last fall’s playoffs. “It showed us we’re on the right path,” Orr said. “This group is developing the mindset and the chemistry to compete at a high level.”
📍 Marion Soccer Complex (109 Valentine Ln)
📅 June 9–12 | 🕔 5–8 p.m.
👧🧒 Ages 6–14 (1st–8th grade), all genders welcome
👉 Register at salukisoccercamps.com
Walk-up registration will be available as space allows.
📌 Heads up: the morning youth camp in Carbondale that same week is nearly sold out, so if your athlete’s more of an evening player or you missed your shot at that one, Marion is a great option.
This summer’s shaping up to be big for Saluki Soccer. Get your young player on the field and in the mix.
About Coach Orr
Orr is in his second year as head coach of the SIU Women’s Soccer program, bringing more than a decade of college coaching experience to Carbondale. A native of Eaglesham, Scotland, Orr previously built the women’s soccer program at the University of West Alabama from the ground up, leading the team to 11 consecutive postseason appearances and 10 straight winning seasons.
He holds a USSF 'A' License and multiple international coaching certifications, with a background in both youth and collegiate player development. Known for his leadership and culture-building, Orr is focused on growing the game in Southern Illinois—on and off the pitch. Under his direction, SIU is emerging as a competitive force with strong community ties and a clear vision for success.
Over his coaching career, Orr has helped develop numerous professional players, including Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns, USA), Nicki Gears (Sunderland F.C., England), Katy Morris (Coventry United – England), Nicola Gibson (Watford F.C. – England), Kirsten Reilly (Crystal Palace F.C. – England), and Anele Komani (Hapoel Petah Tikva F.C. – Israel).
