NEW YORK | New York City FC teamed up with New York City’s First Lady Chirlane McCray and her son, Dante, to kick-off spring in a healthy way by hosting 80 students from P.S. 307 in the Bronx for a fitness and health education program on Friday afternoon at Gracie Mansion.
Jason Hernandez, Ryan Meara, Akira Fitzgerald, Kwadwo Poku and Sebastian Velasquez, along with New York City FC President Tom Glick and Sporting Director Claudio Reyna participated in the event. Some players took to small-sided fields for fun games with the local students, while others talked about healthy eating habits and remaining active.
“I like being around the kids,” Poku said. “I have younger brothers who are in the same age group, it’s fun to teach kids. I’m really happy to be here.”
“It’s awesome being out here and interacting with the kids,” Fitzgerald said. “It reminds you of being their age, coming out here and having an awesome time.”
PHOTO GALLERY
Dante de Blasio suited up in a New York City FC jersey and got involved with the activities as well, taking to the mansion’s grass for a little soccer.
Following the conversations, demonstrations and activities, McCray, Deputy Mayor Richard Buery and Glick spoke to the children, emphasizing staying active and eating healthy. The New York City FC President even surprised those in attendance, providing all 80 students with a pair of tickets to Sunday’s match against the Seattle Sounders at Yankee Stadium.
“Today’s a great day,” Glick said. “We have the kids from P.S. 307, we’re here at Gracie Mansion and we’re playing soccer, learning how to eat healthy, doing our homework and getting exercise. The kids are having fun, our players are having fun and we couldn’t ask for a better setting for it.”
Advice
Claudio Reyna: If you can eat well, sleep well and stay active, you have a better chance to have a successful, healthy lifestyle.
Jason Hernandez: I think with the advances in technology these days, it’s easy for kids to stay inside and have everything that could entertain them. The emphasis to get outside and be with friends and be active and play sports is so important.
Ryan Meara: The main thing is to stay active, especially now that the weather is warming up. Get out, get to the park, run around with your friends and try to eat as healthy as possible.
