Elmira Men’s Soccer Welcomes Pathways for Evening of Fun at Campus Field
Elmira, NY -- Although the academic year is coming to an end with students winding down the final few weeks of class, members of the Elmira College men's soccer team took some time out of their busy schedules to give back to the community. The Elmira men partnered with a group of spirited individuals from Pathways, Inc. for an evening of fun on EC's Campus Field on Wednesday, May 18.
"It was great welcoming Pathways to campus this past Wednesday and I am excited about having our program work closely with their organization moving forward," Elmira head coach
Keith Moore said.
The Pathways, Inc. organization was founded in 1979 with the mission of providing children, adults, and families with specialized programs and services to aid in developmental disabilities, mental health, family support, traumatic brain injury, and child care. The organization strives to meet the expressed needs of those it supports and offer meaningful opportunities to develop their own capabilities.
The organization has witnessed immense growth over its nearly 40 years of operation. Pathways, Inc. now operates more than 40 different programs in 13 counties throughout the Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, and Rochester, NY. The group that the Soaring Eagles hosted on Wednesday was from its several locations in Corning, NY.
"Wednesday night gave our guys a great opportunity to give back to the community," Moore continued. "I think our guys realize how very fortunate they are to have the opportunities that they have here at Elmira and the event was a chance to make a difference in other's lives."
The Elmira men designed Wednesday night's schedule, comprised of passing and shooting drills, and culminating in a friendly scrimmage. Pathways, Inc. participants arrived shortly after 5:00 p.m. and quickly got into action, as the Soaring Eagles soccer stars took them under their wings to teach some fancy footwork. By the end of the day, the visitors were filling the net with regularity. Goals and smiles were abundant for all in attendance.
"Our guys took the initiative to design the various drills and activities that our participants from Pathways took part in," Moore explained. "It was a great opportunity for our guys to collaborate and develop leadership skills."
Elmira men's soccer and Pathways expect to continue their tight relationship this coming fall. Do not be surprised if the Soaring Eagles' cheering section is a little larger next season.
"Wednesday night was a great time for everyone! We've already talked with Pathways about returning next fall for another activity day and potentially having the organization attend a game next season," Moore said.