Kickin’ It for Komen San Diego

Since 2012, the Kickin’ It Challenge soccer tournament has raised more than $180,000 for Susan G. Komen San Diego, providing more than 1,100 mammograms to women across San Diego County who otherwise could not afford it.  “We’re funding the County’s largest program of free breast cancer services and support like free diagnostic mammograms, transportation, temporary financial aid for living expenses, meal deliveries, education and more,” said Laura Farmer Sherman, President & CEO of Susan G. Komen San Diego. 

In June, 125 youth soccer teams from Southern California played in 210 games over the three day tournament. More than 1,250 players aged 6-18 were Kickin’ It, raising nearly $45,000. This year, Torrey Pines Bank sponsored pink attire for the Crusaders Soccer Club Boys 2007 team (pictured). "As a parent, being able to engage your children and create a call to action through activities that they are already passionate about is priceless,” says Dana Rager, Relationship Manager for Torrey Pines Bank. “These kids love soccer, and through events like this they also become passionate about making a difference in their community."

The idea for the Kickin’ It Challenge (KIC) was born in 2011 after Pam Bickel, Founding Director and President, realized many moms in her soccer community were battling breast cancer. She reached out to a couple people she knew from soccer and a couple weeks later KIC had a name, logo and mission. “We are honored to be able to bring the soccer community together and raise both money and awareness for a disease that has touched so many in our lives," says Pam Bickel.