Loma Linda University Health sponsors Strykers soccer league

In an exciting development for both sports enthusiasts and community health advocates, the Empire Strykers, a team in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL), have announced a partnership with Loma Linda University Health (LLUH). This four-year agreement is set to make waves not only in professional soccer but also in community wellness across the Inland Empire.

As a major sponsor, Loma Linda University Health will prominently feature its branding on the Strykers’ official match jerseys, symbolizing a mutual commitment to promoting health and vitality. This collaboration is built on the shared goal of uplifting families in the region, particularly focusing on children and youth development, a commitment that aligns with LLUH’s holistic health philosophy—”to make man whole.”

Dr. Anthony Hilliard, CEO of Loma Linda University Health Hospitals, expressed enthusiasm for this partnership. “By teaming up with the Empire Strykers, we’re not only supporting the growth of indoor sports but also championing a healthier future through movement, teamwork, and connection,” he stated. This sentiment underscores the belief that engaging in sports can be a powerful tool for enhancing individual and community well-being.

At the heart of this partnership will be a series of youth camps hosted at the Drayson Center Super Field. These camps will offer local children the unique opportunity to learn about physical fitness, teamwork, and the importance of healthy living directly from Strykers players and coaches. Such initiatives aim to inspire children by marrying the excitement of soccer with valuable life skills, bringing joy and knowledge into their lives.

The managing partner of the Empire Strykers, Jeff Burum, echoed Dr. Hilliard’s sentiments. “This relationship is about more than sports and healthcare—it’s about building a stronger community,” Burum said. Through this collaboration, the organizations aim to create new opportunities in education and wellness, enriching the lives of residents and enhancing the overall quality of life in the Empire.

One of the standout features of this partnership will be the annual LLUH Employee Night hosted by the Strykers. This event promises engaging in-game activities, community messages, and co-branded experiences that foster a sense of belonging and connection. With plans for collaborative media campaigns, hospital visits from players, and themed matchday events, the initiative seeks to raise awareness about essential health topics that resonate with local families, making it more than just a sporting event; it’s about community engagement.

Particularly noteworthy is the focus on Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH), which serves the youngest and most vulnerable community members. The alliance with the Strykers aims to spotlight pediatric care efforts, promote healing through play, and offer uplifting experiences for families dealing with health challenges. By integrating the excitement of soccer into the lives of children receiving care, both organizations hope to spark joy during tough times.

The partnership is equally committed to investing in the community by acknowledging and celebrating excellence through joint recognition programs and professional development opportunities. From mentoring young professionals in both healthcare and hospitality to creating job pathways in the region, LLUH and the Strykers are united in their mission to shape a brighter future for the Inland Empire.

“This partnership just makes sense,” Burum remarked. “We both believe in the power of people and the importance of community. It’s about working together to support the next generation, recognize hard work, and create real impact.” This foundational philosophy speaks to the essence of the partnership: combining forces to facilitate meaningful change within the community.

As more details about upcoming events and community programs come to light, the anticipation builds. The partnership between the Empire Strykers and Loma Linda University Health promises to enrich the lives of residents across the Inland Empire, making sports a catalyst for health and wellness in the community.

With the current trend toward collaborative approaches to public health, the partnership exemplifies a modern model for community engagement. By leveraging the energy of professional sports alongside the essential services provided by healthcare organizations, both the Strykers and LLUH are stepping forward as champions of holistic well-being.

In conclusion, as the Empire Strykers embark on this partnership with Loma Linda University Health, they are not just enhancing their presence in the sporting world. They are also paving the way for new opportunities that prioritize the health and well-being of their community. This partnership serves as an inspiring reminder of what can be achieved when sports and healthcare unite for a common cause: building a healthier and more vibrant future for the youth and families in the Inland Empire. The journey has just begun, and it promises to be an impactful venture that advocates for wellness, teamwork, and connection.

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