Women's Soccer Reads to Brookside Elementary Students

Dec. 3, 2010

The University of the Pacific women's soccer team visited Brookside Elementary School Thursday, as part of the Read to Win children's literacy program, to read to first and second graders.

The Tigers spent time with the Brookside first and second grade classes in an effort to discuss the benefits of reading and how books play a major role in life. Kids get a chance to hone their reading skills while hanging out with a of Pacific student-athlete with the goal of helping children develop a lasting love for literature.

"I think it was a great experience to get out in the community and read to Brookside Elementary," assistant coach Carmen Padilla said. "Almost all of our team had the opportunity to go, and they really enjoyed spending time with the kids. A few of them really got into it and might have a future in professional narration. The other highlight was the Q & A we did with the kids, talking to them about college and the importance of education."

"This is the third year of our Read to Win Program," Associate Director of Athletics for Student Services & Compliance / Senior Woman Administrator Holly Trexler said. "Pacific Athletics is taking an active role in encouraging literacy in Stockton. Our student-athletes serve as role models and show how important reading is, and how fun reading can be."

The Tigers also handed out bookmarks and free tickets to the Pacific women's basketball game against the University of Connecticut on December 28 if they had completed a set number of books since the Read to Win program kicked off last month.

By giving back to the community and taking an active role in supporting literacy, Pacific student-athletes have the chance to help society and serve as positive role models for children.