The LA Galaxy Community Clinic Series began the 2018 campaign on Wednesday, April 11 as the Galaxy Foundation hosted middle school students from the Inner City Education Foundation (ICEF) Soccer Academy alongside partners the Positive Coaching Alliance, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and Herbalife Nutrition.
The clinic began with a lesson from Galaxy nutritionist Nicolette Leffler, who shared that carbohydrate intake the night before a big game is key and plenty of protein is needed after for proper recovery. Students were then put to the test by Galaxy Camps and Clinic Coaches through various passing, shooting and scrimmaging drills. A special appearance by everyone’s favorite intergalactic mascot, Cozmo, had the students lining up for autographs and questions regarding the location of his home planet.
Shannon Azizi, from Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, led a preventive injury discussion that featured the explanation of concussion symptoms, injury recovery and plenty of stretching. Next, students gathered around Marti Reed, with Positive Coaching Alliance, who elaborated on the impact that a positive team member and role model can have on others.
With an enhanced knowledge in nutrition, soccer skills, injury prevention and sportsmanship, the ICEF Soccer Academy students were then invited to attend the LA Galaxy II match against Phoenix Rising later that evening.
Throughout 2018, the LA Galaxy Community Clinic Series will continue to provide opportunities for students to learn and use soccer as a way to improve as both an athlete and a person, on and off the field.
