Burnaby, BC – While on the road earlier in September, the Simon Fraser University women's soccer team took time out of their busy schedule to visit the Stanislaus County Institute of Learning and Tactical Character Academy.

 The middle school is home to students enrolled in the Stanislaus County Alternative Education Program, and focuses on challenging the mind, body and spirit of their students with the values, skills, and education necessary to success in life.

"It was a wonderful experience to visit the school and speak with the students," said head coach Annie Hamel. "The girls were able to share with the students, but also learn from them in return."

The visit, which was arranged by school police officer and Turlock City Council member Amy Bublak, took place on school grounds and the Clan's athletes were able to share their life stories with the students, specifically their journeys to collegiate athletics.

"The students really enjoyed the stories," said principal Marcelo Briones. "They also enjoyed when the coaches shared their diverse backgrounds, and seeing each coach speak in their first-language was a nice treat for them."

The SFU women's soccer team hopes that their visit to the school inspired many of the students and encouraged them to believe in their dreams and pursue what they want in life.

"It was very important to me to take the girls to the school and become involved," finished Hamel. "It is a nice way to remind them that it is a privilege to go to university and play collegiate sports like they do and that it should not be taken for granted."

The Clan are back in action this Thursday, September 25 when they host Western Oregon in their Great Northwest Athletic Conference home opener.

Kick-off is at 5:00 p.m. on Terry Fox Field.