SAN JOSE, Calif. - Earthquakes forward Chris Wondolowski visited East Valley Family YMCA in San Jose on Tuesday in the 12th Amway Kicks for Kids event of 2011. In its third year of existence, Amway Kicks for Kids teaches local youth about the importance of a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.
The day began when Wondolowski was introduced to the children on a state-of-the-art soccer field at the facility. The group of 150 kids from the program welcomed him with chants and cheers.
WATCH:Highlights from Wondolowski's visit to East Valley Family YMCA
PHOTO GALLERY:Images from Tuesday evening's event
The All-Star forward spoke to the children about his journey to becoming a professional athlete. He told them that he started playing soccer when he was five. He played soccer all the way through college and he attended Chico State University. Throughout the story, he stressed how important it is to work hard and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
During the question-and-answer session, Wondolowski chatted with the kids about food and beverage choices and their favorite sports and activities.
To conclude the afternoon, Wondolowski signed player cards and Earthquakes staff handed out 150 replica jersey t-shirts and tickets, courtesy of Amway, to the students for San Jose’s 13th home game of the season on Saturday, August 6 at 7:30 p.m. PT at Buck Shaw Stadium against the Portland Timbers.
The Earthquakes and Amway teamed up to create Amway Kicks for Kids in 2009. The program is in its third season in 2011. Through Amway Kicks for Kids, Earthquakes players will visit 17 schools or community centers in the Bay Area to discuss the importance of being active and living a healthy lifestyle.
