Courtesy: SMC Athletics Ashley Nied (L) and Sidney Garza provide instruction to kids at Sunday's clinic.
Moraga, CA - In a continuing effort to expand community outreach, the Saint Mary's women's soccer team participated in a pre-game clinic, with girls aged 5-13 from cities all around the East Bay, Sunday before they took on Portland State in the SMC Fall Soccer Classic on Sunday. The young girls, mentored by the Gaels, got to experience a soccer practice much like the team takes part in daily.
It was more than a day of warm-up and skills building, however. The Gaels set up a training to include all the parts of soccer, which makes it the world's most popular sport. They day highlighted the fun of competing, the way teams come together to solve problems, and the hard work it takes to overcome difficult situations. First, the youth players were able to experience this process for themselves in various games, and then they were able to watch as the Gaels used these themes to band together to beat Portland State 2-1, with the winning goal coming in the second half.
"The cheers from the kids during the game were so cute," said senior Jessica Menzhuber, who had two assists on the day. "It was a small gesture for us to play with them and it was so worth it."
Because of the impressive youth turnout and the community support for first year head coach Kai Edwards, the team will offer another a pre-game clinic Sunday, September 20th, from 10-11. Please email Scott Alexander with questions at sa8@stmarys-ca.edu.
Courtesy: SMC Athletics
