Kids Kick It During Day of Soccer and Charity

Flintridge Preparatory student Sophia Moradi couldn't have asked for a better day.

Under puffy clouds dotting a clear sky, La Cañada residents turned out Sunday to support the eighth grader's fundraiser for Club 21, a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with Down Syndrome and their families.

Moradi organized Day of Soccer because it was a way to meld her favorite sport with her favorite cause.

"It was a beautiful day, and we had a lot of fun. I wanted to give the kids with Down Syndrome a chance to interact with other children and to learn a little bit about the sport,'' the 13-year-old said. 

The three-hour event, which included food and music, began with coaches from the American Youth Soccer Organization teaching simple drills, like passing and dribbling, and finished with one big friendly game. Moradi said she was moved to see so many members of the community support Club 21, whose mission is dedicated to helping folks with Down Syndrome reach their full potential.

Sunday's event helped raise money for new computers for Club 21, Moradi said.

After preparing for the event for some time, Moradi said, "Seeing everything come together with the perfect weather ... and all the smiles of the children was just the most amazing feeling.''

If you would like to contribute to make a donation, but missed Sunday's event, please visit dayofsoccer.com. For more information about Club 21, please visit the website.