Soccer clinics and tournaments in Iraq are scheduled for Memorial Day weekend to honor a fallen Wilton soldier who used soccer to connect with Iraqi children.

The clinics are part of the Kick for Nick foundation, which Pfc. Nick Madaras' family established in his name after he was killed by a roadside bombing in 2006. Madaras' parents, Shalini and Bill, say he brought soccer balls to Iraqi children and taught them the game while overseas.

"He wanted to develop a relationship despite the fact there was no ability to communicate," Bill Madaras says.

After Madaras' death, his family and community came together to honor his use of soccer as a means of communication and unity with Iraqis. The foundation provides soccer balls and development programs to children there.