Nov. 6, 2002

SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Six members of the Santa Clara University women's soccer team delivered toys to pediatric patients and their siblings at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center on Monday afternoon.

Kristi Candau, Micaela Esquivel, Bree Horvath, Chardonnay Poole and Erin Sharpe, as well as team manager Amy Moraczewski, made the deliveries and spent time playing and talking to many of the children. The Broncos also gave the children autographed memorabilia from the team.

The toys were donated by SCU women's soccer fans during the October 18 contest between Santa Clara and local rival Saint Mary's. The night game was deemed "Valley Medical Center Night", and ticket discounts were offered to those that made donations.

"The number of toys donated by our fans was commendable," said Sharpe, a senior goalkeeper. "We were able to give toys not only to the admitted children, but to their siblings as well. There were also extra toys and games which will be donated to the play room in the unit, as well as to future patients."

When asked about the donation experience, Sharpe said, "It was touching to see the looks on the faces of the kids once they received their toys. We hope that these small gifts will improve their hospital experience and help in making their stay more comfortable."

The fifth-ranked Broncos return to the field tonight and host Pacific at Buck Shaw Stadium. The 7:30 p.m. match will be close the non-conference season for Santa Clara.