San Diego County schools encouraged to register for the sport-based social emotional learning program
SAN DIEGO (May 23, 2023) – San Diego Loyal SC announced today that it has partnered with Southern California nonprofit PureGame to launch Character Matters, a school-based program that uses soccer as a platform to help students develop essential life skills including leadership, teamwork, communication and decision-making.
Character Matters, which teaches lessons in character education and social emotional learning through soccer and other sport-based activities, is delivered through in-school, after school or summer school formats. SD Loyal will support PureGame’s unique experiential learning program in the San Diego area through player appearances, collaboration, sponsorship and student recognition events.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with PureGame to further expand our impact in the community,” said SD Loyal Vice President of Community Relations, Shannon Mac Millan. “With a clear commitment to developing positive character skills for students while encouraging physical activity, PureGame’s programing and curriculum was in clear alignment with our club values. We remain committed to bettering our local community through the power of sport and PureGame is the perfect teammate to foster a positive impact.”
PureGame’s innovative S.T.A.R. (Stop. Think. Act. Review.) and S.O.C.C.E.R.R. (Self-Control, Optimism, Compassion, Cooperation, Encouragement, Respect and Responsibility) teaching platforms infuse a cooperative and inclusive style of sport-based activities and field games with social emotional learning. The character curriculums are designed to engage students in a unique experiential learning process that challenges them to develop life skills, have fun, be active, and build positive relationships.
“We are delighted to partner with SD Loyal,” said Tony Everett, Founder and Chief Encouragement Officer at PureGame. “At PureGame, we provide caring mentors and a sport-based character education program to help kids connect with peers, find clarity, and pave pathways to success because all young people deserve to live a meaningful life.”
For more information about PureGame program, visit thepuregame.org. San Diego County schools interested in bringing Character Matters to their campus are encouraged to send an email to sdloyal@thepuregame.org.
