After 11 years, the founders of the Oceaneer’s Youth Soccer Club stepped down this winter, but young kids will still get their kicks thanks to the Marion Recreation Department.

“When they decided it was time to pass the torch they asked if Marion Rec would be interested,” said Jody Dickerson, director of the Recreation Department. “They like our philosophy here. We serve everybody, make it fun, make it enjoyable, and everything else falls into place.”

Husband and wife Jorge and Tiffany Figueiredo started Oceaneers with the goal of providing a noncompetitive environment to teach soccer.

The Figueiredos wanted to step away from the program without having it dissolve.

Known as the Marion/Rochester Youth Soccer Club, the program will continue to offer games and instruction Saturdays at the Dexter Lane playing fields.

A new element for boys and girls ages 3 and older will be added. Dickerson said the Dinomites program, developed by the Connecticut-based Xara Soccer, uses story and games to introduce the game to kids.

In addition to the department’s support, the Rochester Parks Commission is a partner in the program.

“We’re excited about this unique partnership between the two towns,” Dickerson said.

He said that while Marion has the space to host the program, keeping it in Rochester is more convenient.

“We have the field capabilities here in Marion, but they are all over the place,” he said. “The Rochester fields are centrally located.”

Having a youth soccer program under the direction of a municipality is rare in the state. Of Massachusetts’ 351 cities and towns, 39 offer municipal soccer programs.

“It’s very unique and it’s also a huge benefit because we have the support from the two towns,” Dickerson said.

As the Oceaneer’s, the program regularly had approximately 400 kids participate year to year. Dickerson said he expects to see similar numbers with the new club.

Also, Dickerson said a travel team will be part of the program.

So far, 75 kids have signed up for the more competitive play, but pending a decision from the South Coast Soccer League, that team might not compete this year.

In order to play against other league teams, MRYS had to submit an application. League members are waiting to make a decision.

“I’m disappointed that it was not voted on and was tabled until September,” Dickerson said. “Basically, we’re on the outside looking in.”

If denied, Dickerson said organizers will try to join another league for the travel team. Despite the setback, Dickersons said players and organizers look forward to the start of the season.

“We say it’s about fun, family and friends – what else could you ask for?” Dickerson said. Registration for the current season is closed.

For more information about the program visit www.marionrecreation.com.