Coca-Cola Offers Youth Clubs of San Diego an Active, Educational Experience

Millions of soccer fans have their eyes on the Mexican national team with hopes of a 2014 World Cup qualification. At the upcoming game against Finland in San Diego, 12 teens will join their heroes on the pitch as official on-field ball handlers. The youngsters, who represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego’s Oakes Branch in Logan Heights, have been selected for Coca-Cola’s Club Balon Rojo. This educational program inspires participants to excel in school and lead active, healthy lifestyles.

Art-Hero_BL_Balon_Rojo_soccer-kidsClub Balon Rojo is part of Coca-Cola‘s nationwide efforts to educate youth about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle through proper exercise. Coca-Cola teamed up with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego to select teens who display outstanding scholastic achievement and leadership. This is a special opportunity for teens to get active and enjoy the happiness of the game up close and personal. Participating youth will share their experiences with their communities, serving as role models and encouraging others to excel.

The game will take place at the Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, CA on October 30, 2013.  The day prior to kickoff, TV personality Fernando Fiore and soccer legend Marcelo Balboa will lead a soccer clinic for the teens, promoting physical activity and teaching new skills. Additionally, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) will offer a college-readiness workshop, inspiring participants to pursue higher education.

“Coca-Cola has a long tradition of supporting sports at every level — from local youth teams to national and Olympic teams. We believe active, healthy living should be an integral part of everyone’s life. The best way to get teens moving is through fun, engaging programs like our Club Balon Rojo soccer experience,” said Jim O’Connell, Sales Director, San Diego. “By providing opportunities and venues to exercise, we enable younger generations to uncap their potential and get active on the field regardless of skill level.”

image_thumbnail.ashx“We are very appreciative and honored to be chosen as a partner of Coca-Cola for this unique event,” said Oakes Branch Manager Ricardo Sandoval. “Their Club Balon Rojo educational program aligns well with our three priority outcomes of academic success, character development and healthy lifestyles. Our kids are looking forward to this special opportunity.”

Coca-Cola has been a proud supporter of the HSF for more than 30 years, raising funds and helping to generate support for the educational advancement of Hispanic students throughout the U.S.

The Coca-Cola Company continues to make the health of communities around the country a priority. Coca-Cola is working together with organizations, individuals and government to be part of the solution to obesity. Through collaborative partnerships and programs, the Company is delivering more beverage choices, calorie information and physical activity opportunities than ever before. To learn more, please visit www.comingtogether.com.

The soccer clinic and educational seminar too place at the Logan Heights Neighborhood William J. Oakes Boys & Girls Clubhouse on 2930 Marcy Ave, San Diego, CA 92113 at 4:30 p.m. on October 29, 2013. The event was open to the selected Boys & Girls Club members and their families.

You must be logged in to post a comment Login