ERIKA VARGAS

I am not a former college soccer player. In fact, I picked up the sport in my late 20's. It was fun and a great way to stay in shape. However, I did not know that I would later pick up an extra 40 lbs after the birth of my daughter and, later, my twin boys. Embarrassed of my extra weight and beyond slow when I ran, I stopped playing soccer. A friend of mine knew Cindy and let me know about a new program that she was starting called Just For Kicks. Curious, I went to the first session. It was amazing! Not only did I get to play again, I actually got to learn how to play. I had always played basketball in high school. The only time you kick a ball is if you tripped, which was not that unusual for me.

After my first introductory session, I was hooked. I learned to schedule time for my fitness and actually work out to improve my abilities versus how many calories I burned. Cindy and the other coaches inspired me when I couldn't even run a lap with out feeling like an 89-year-old, two pack a day smoker :) Cindy always told me to envision myself stepping on the old unfit me and running into fitness.

I have also met amazing women who just enjoy the game. There are stay at home moms, law students, therapists, doctors, bookkeepers . . . the list goes on. We all have one thing in common - a love of playing outdoors and learning a sport. I have lost 20 pounds and have gone down two sizes in my pants. However, the weirdest thing has happened - I don't care about my smaller size as much as my increased ability to play a sport I love. I can never thank Cindy enough. When you meet her you are naturally drawn to her compassion and kindness. She is an amazing soccer player and also a great leader. Thank you Cindy for changing my life.

Erika Vargas, MFT, JD, Soccer Superstar

MARGARET MACIAS

I started looking about a year ago for something fun to do for exercise. Fitness clubs were just not fun and knew I wanted something that didn't feel like I was exercising. Well I found Just for Kicks advertised in the Fullerton Newspaper.

This was the first time I really ever played soccer. I did not play when I was a young and so this would be my first time playing. Well I have enjoyed it so much that I have continued signing up without missing a session since the first Just for Kicks session started last June.

I have learned so much and it never really feels like exercise. I have noticed that I have much more energy during the day, I have toned up my muscles and feel much better about my fitness and lost a few pounds too. I am going to be 40 years old this year and I am proud that I am even on the soccer field.

Cindy had made the soccer schedule fit into my busy work and family life that getting up at 5am in the morning twice a week is just what I was looking for. It doesn't interfere with work or my two boys soccer and football schedules. All the instructors are very good and keep us moving and always challenging us to learn more skills. Last November I even played for a few games on an indoor soccer team! Thank you Cindy, Ana, Kim, Kim, and Sarah! It is a lot of fun!!

MARYANN PEREZ

I joined Just for Kicks with no previous soccer experience. In fact, I did not consider myself even mildly athletic. Over the last several weeks, I have developed new respect for the game of soccer - from dribbling the ball without the fear of tripping over it, to running after the ball with energy and determination-something I've never experienced before.

Being a part of Just for Kicks makes me feel like I am taking charge of my health, and having tons of fun in the process! I may not be the best player in the group, but I am proud of what I've accomplished so far and look forward to developing more skills in the months to come.

I tell everyone I meet about Just for Kicks because I truly believe that it is a program that meets a wide spectrum of health goals. Besides, anything that gets me up at 4:30 in the morning has got to be worthwhile.

TIFFANY RATH

Before I began playing soccer, I was having a hard time sticking to a workout routine.  I tried the gym, working out at home and walking. Joining the Just For Kicks fitness program has been the answer for me. 

 I love going to sessions and fret the thought of missing one.  I don't even mind getting up at 4:30 in the morning!  I have learned so many new soccer techniques.  I have met new people and really come to love the sport of soccer. 

 I feel better about myself physically, and am happy I have a time to call "my own" to workout (as a busy, fulltime, working mom of two).   Most importantly, I am having so much fun!!!!!!!   

Thanks Anna and Cindy!!!!!!