USA Women's Soccer

On December 13th, 2011 Shannon Boxx, Rachel Buehler, Lauren Cheney, Stephanie Cox, Heather Mitts, and Heather O’Reilly of the US Women’s Soccer team took time out of their demanding training schedule to visit over 70 kids from the Hollywood Boys and Girls Club as part of Athletes for Hope’s Home for the Holidays rally. Several of the players had already visited the club on prior visits to the Los Angeles area and feel a special connection to the kids there.

“When you are as lucky as we are to be a professional athlete and role model, it gives you a rare opportunity to give back to these kids. They are always so energetic, willing to listen and to learn. I try to instill confidence and connect with every single one of the kids. I do it because I can see and feel the impact we are making.” --Heather Mitts

During their visit, the players signed autographs, distributed U.S. Women’s National Team Gear and posed for pictures. The players then divided the kids up into five stations and worked on drills ranging from dribbling through the cones, bouncing balls on their knees, and learning how to do headers. The kids had a fantastic time and can’t wait for the players to visit again soon.