A whole lot of fitness and fun came to Magnolia Science Academy on Tuesday, August 27, as the Los Angeles Rams hosted a Football Clinic for more than 150 students in grades 6-12.
The event aimed to increase play equity by bringing an elite competitive sport to a high-need area with restricted access to sports opportunities and spaces, and inspiring young girls to participate in flag football.
“We are very excited about this partnership with the Los Angeles Rams,” said Alfredo Rubalcava, Chief Executive Officer and Superintendent of Magnolia Public Schools (MPS), a network of 10 tuition-free high-performing college preparatory charter public schools in Southern California. “Students need to find joy in play and sports, and the only way they’re going to gain this experience is through exposure. We’re grateful for this opportunity to partner with the Los Angeles Rams to offer access to health and wellness through sports, and especially change the narrative for girls in sports, just as we’re doing in STEM education. We want all students to know that football is for them,” added Rubalcava.
During the Football Clinic, Rams youth engagement coaches and Rams Cheerleaders were on site to guide and encourage students every step of the way as they learned the basics of American football – run, pass, catch and play!
“The Rams are committed to growing the game of football through leagues, camps and clinics and we’re excited to bring these opportunities to the community of San Fernando Valley,” said Los Angeles Rams associate manager of youth football Mo Streety. “We view football as a platform that addresses education inequities, youth justice and mentorship and through collaborations like this, we are enhancing our goal to create pathways on and off the field.”
Magnolia Science Academy, located at 17125 Victory Blvd., is among the Department of Education’s (CDE) 2024 Distinguished Schools, and was recognized earlier this year by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond as one of 293 middle schools and high schools throughout California “closing the achievement gap and demonstrating exceptional student performance.”
MPS graduates are 40% more likely to enroll in college, 54% more likely to earn college degrees, and 22% (54% if female) more likely to graduate from a STEM field than students from similar schools across the country.
For more information visit www.magnoliapublicschools.org.
