More Than a Game: Empire Strykers Deliver Smiles and Strength to Brave Young Patients
MASL Empire Strykers

More Than a Game: Empire Strykers Deliver Smiles and Strength to Brave Young Patients

Published on September 23, 2026 under Major Arena Soccer League (MASL)
Empire Strykers News Release


LOMA LINDA, CA - Bringing a powerful dose of joy and encouragement, the Empire Strykers major arena soccer team recently completed their third visit of the year to Loma Linda University Health, continuing their regular community outreach program for pediatric patients and their families.

The special day kicked off at 10:00 AM with the team's heartwarming "Teddy Bear Visit." For 45 minutes, Strykers players walked the hospital halls to visit individual rooms, delivering special stuffed teddy bears adorned with custom badges directly to the children. These personal bedside visits provided crucial moments of connection for young patients whose conditions keep them room-bound.

Following the room visits, the event shifted to the hospital's Stater Brothers room, transforming the space into a lively hub of athletic fun and interaction. The Strykers players traded the quiet hallways for an energetic soccer demonstration, showing off their skills before inviting the children to join in. Players spent time teaching basic soccer fundamentals, playing interactively with the attendees, and posing for photographs.

In addition to the teddy bears, the team brought plenty of soccer balls and memorabilia, hosting an autograph session that left patients with tangible keepsakes from the day.

For the families and children navigating serious medical battles-including rigorous cancer treatments and a diverse range of other complex illnesses-the visit provided much-needed emotional and therapeutic relief. Hospital stays can be isolating, but the event served as a unifying platform, allowing children facing entirely different health challenges to come together, connect, and share a universally positive experience.

"We bring soccer balls, we bring the teddy bears, and then they will sign autographs," said Ashley Cole Director of Community Relations & Partnerships. "They interact with the patients and just make them feel good about themselves and life... give them a little bit of courage and encouragement."

Through these ongoing visits, the Empire Strykers continue to prove that their impact extends far beyond the arena turf, scoring vital goals for hope, confidence, and community spirit within the walls of Loma Linda University Health.

If you are looking for things to do in San Bernardino County, San Bernardino County attractions, things to do in San Bernardino County this weekend, or especially family activities in San Bernardino County, look to the Empire Strykers of the Major Arena Soccer League. It is one of the best sports events in San Bernardino County that you will ever attend. You can find season tickets, individual game tickets, and Empire Strykers fan gear at www.theempirestrykers.com.

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Major Arena Soccer League Stories from September 23, 2026


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