Pine Manor’s Kinsella Runs Marathon for SCORES

Pine Manor College women’s soccer coach Cory Kinsella knows a thing or two about running. A former college soccer player, a certified physical trainer and a head coach entering her third season on the Gators sideline, on April 20, Kinsella will run the Boston Marathon, but not for herself.

She’s running for the future. She’s running for SCORES-New England.

"Every time I want to quit running because my legs hurt so much, I remind myself of these young kids who have worse struggles in their everyday lives."

One of 14 such programs nationwide, America SCORES-New England combines education and fitness using writing and soccer as its tools in after school programs for underprivileged youth throughout the country. SCORES engages 8- to 12-year-old students from low-income housing in Boston, Roxbury and Dorchester in daily after-school workshops, focusing two days a week on poetry and community service, twice on soccer practice and once on weekly soccer games.

"Through all the different activities surrounding soccer, writing, theatrics and service, students can learn their strengths in all different areas on the field, off the field and in the classroom," said Kinsella, a Syracuse native who played at Union College from 2000 to 2004. "It gives elementary and middle school students from inner-city Boston and from low-income families the chance to grow as soccer players and individuals," she said.

With teamwork as its underlying value, SCORES-New England supported 880 students last year alone, preaching the importance of literacy, physical fitness, community service, bonding and, of course, soccer, a game near and dear to the Gators coach.

"Soccer has taught me so many valuable life lessons, and I know that the sport of soccer will not only assist these young individuals to grow into mature successful human beings, but it will give them a sense of community and family as it did for me."

Kinsella’s goal is to raise over $4,000 for SCORES, but she’s well on her way, gathering over $3,000 in donations since January 1, including over $500 at a SCORES social at The Pour House in Boston on March 3.

"It is the most amazing feeling to give back to these kids," said the 27-year-old, who spends up to four hours a day training and is currently at the Algarve Cup in Portugal completing a coaching symposium held by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America.

"I want people to know that the youth involved in America SCORES are grateful for any support. Whether it’s donating time or money, they appreciate every single effort that helps America SCORES and its mission."

To donate directly to SCORES through Cory's marathon efforts, click here.



Courtesy: Pine Manor Athletic Communications