March 13, 2002

U.S. Under-19 National Team players are popular visitors with grade school children in Mexico

After their defeats of Mexico and Costa Rica the U.S. squad visited two schools in Hidalgo.

Through interpreters they talked with the children about following a healthy life style avoiding drugs and violence. It was the national week of Anti-Drug and Anti-Violence in Mexico they spoke of the importance of education and staying in school. They were big hits with the 500 students at each school and signed autographs, posed for pictures, answered questions and even played soccer with the youngsters.

Some Mexican children returned the favor by teaching the U.S. players some traditional Mexican dancing.

Head Coach Tracey Leone said her players love doing events like that, and the Mexican children were so receptive She added that it is invaluable for the players to go out into the community and give back to the game of soccer, because when they work with children they end up getting as much out of the experience as the kids. She believes that for players at this stage in their lives it is tremendous for their growth as people to be able to give of themselves.

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