CHICAGO – Emma Irle and Corissa Koontz of Loyola Chicago women's soccer spent the offseason volunteering with Gracia Inc. in Guatemala. The duo helped the organization continue its mission of economically empowering young women so they can earn an income, become financially literate, live independently, and stand up for themselves.
 
"The service trip we took to Guatemala really put everything into perspective," said Irle. "Coming into the experience, I really did not know what to expect — I knew we were coaching soccer and working with young women — but besides that, this experience came about by me and Corissa just giving a simple "yes." And this "yes" was being interested in volunteering and being a part of Gracia itself."
 
While in Guatemala, Irle and Koontz led groups of young girls ages 6 to 13 in yoga sessions, soccer trainings, arts and crafts, and many other activities. Many of the training sessions went on for two hours in 90-degree heat. The goal was to teach the girls strength, confidence, and teamwork skills that will eventually be put to use wherever their endeavors take them.
 
"It didn't even take a day for us to see how grateful the girls were for us and all they had," continued Irle. "Whether it was trying to speak English to us, giving us hugs, or just watching and smiling."
 
In addition to the activities, Irle and Koontz learned about the girls individually and what brought them to the home in Jalapa. Many were born in the home, some sought refuge, while others were found in desperate states and brought to the home for safety.
 
"Spending time at the home in Jalapa gave me a new-found appreciation of what being on a team truly means," said Koontz. "How the girls not only collaborated to make a beautiful final product, but also love each other unconditionally, is something so special and something I'm hoping to bring back to the Loyola program this fall.
 
"Being able to use soccer and a universal language has truly been a blessing and as much as we were there to impact their lives, I feel as if they impacted our lives just as greatly, if not more," finished Koontz.