This past Saturday was chilly and overcast, but the weather held out enough not to disrupt the Soccer Clinic event in North Providence that day. The event was sponsored by Libby’s, and the big draw of the day… Olympic soccer star Brandi Chastain was giving direct hands on advice to the kids. In case you are not up on soccer yet, Brandi was the player who kicked the winning goal in penalty overtime to win the FIFA Women’s World Cup back in 1999… sort of the equivalent of winning the Super Bowl in overtime (if teams from the whole world were invited). Images of her on her knees in in celebration of the victory, after whipping off her jersey, were featured on the covers of Time, Sports Illustrated & Newsweek. She has also won two gold and one silver Olympic medals. If you want a “girl power” sort of role model for your daughter, well, Brandi would be your lady, that is for certain.
What really impressed me about Brandi, was the earnestness in her desire to share her knowledge and inspire the kids at the event. Moments like the one above were plentiful that day, as Brandi made sure to spend time with all of the small groups of players. Brandi is not just a player, but a mom herself and it showed.
After the clinic, Libby’s had a big $5,000 check for association, and Brandi presented it. See the guy holding it with her, that is the kids coach. He was one very happy man that day.
Once the check was presented, the other bloggers and myself had a chance to chat with Brandi. We discussed our joint concerns about ensuring this generation is brought up to live a healthy active lifestyle. She also shared her own concerns about connecting with the other moms, when her daughter started kindergarten, and how she created connections through starting a fitness group. A great idea, since being a good example is the best way to steer children toward healthy choices themselves.
As I’ve mentioned this wonderful event was sponsored by Libby’s. They not only brought Brandi Chastain to inspire the kids, and a fat check to help the organization, but a whole lot of their single serve fruit cups and goodie bags for everyone to enjoy.
This post is brought to you by Libby’s and The Motherhood. All experiences, recipes and opinions presented here are my own.
What a great product and great give away