SAN JOSE, Calif. – Earthquakes midfielder Shea Salinas, along with Quakes mascot, Q, visited Lynhaven Elementary School in San Jose Friday as part of the Get Earthquakes Fit program, presented by Kaiser Permanente.
Get Earthquakes Fit is a fun, five-week program designed by the Quakes’ long-time head athletic trainer, Bruce Morgan, to increase physical activity in the classroom and at home. It is targeted toward underserved schools and schools lacking a physical education department due to budget cuts. The Earthquakes teamed up with the Santa Clara County Office of Education to meet state standards for third- and fourth-grade students.
The afternoon began with Kaiser Permanente pediatrician Keith Fabisiak speaking to the 175 student participants about the importance of eating healthy and getting regular exercise. After Dr. Fabisiak spoke, Salinas took center stage much to the delight of the students. Salinas spoke to the students about his life as a professional soccer player, and about how he stays healthy and fit. Then, Salinas played some of the Get Earthquakes Fit games with several lucky students.
In the question-and-answer session, Salinas answered questions ranging from what his favorite sport other than soccer is, to what his favorite food is. To conclude the afternoon, Salinas signed autographs for the students.
In 2012, at least 25 local schools will incorporate this program into their third- and fourth-grade curriculum. Get Earthquakes Fit encourages students to engage in 20 minutes of physical activity each day for five weeks.
