Warriors Bring Heart, Soccer to Kenya

Westmont women’s soccer players returned home from a service trip to Kenya with memories extending far beyond soccer clinics and athletic drills. Through a partnership with Sports Outreach International, the team spent two weeks serving children and families in Nairobi and Kibera, building international relationships and engaging in community outreach.

For head coach Lauren Matthias (’16), the most rewarding aspect centered on watching her players intentionally connect with others.

“What made me proudest was the way they loved others,” Matthias says. “I got to see these sweet little glimpses and moments of them loving others really well. Sometimes it looked like sitting with someone, playing, or extending a hand to hold.”

The Warriors engaged in daily meal programs, home visits, school outreach, and soccer instruction. While the schedule brought daily emotional highs and lows, Matthias notes that the athletes maintained a consistent focus on compassion.

For player Mia Stuart (’27), a standout highlight occurred at the Miracle and Victory Children’s Center in Kibera. Hundreds of students and staff greeted the team with songs and dances before the group shared lunch and taught dances.

“There was so much laughter and joy,” Stuart says.

Visiting homes in the Kibera slums allowed players to hear residents’ stories firsthand and witness everyday economic challenges. The experience provided student-athletes with a renewed perspective on global communities and personal opportunities.

Beyond service work, the trip strengthened internal team bonds. Nightly gatherings provided a dedicated space for players to debrief, process emotional moments, and discuss shared experiences. Matthias notes that players consistently stepped up to lead devotions, organize clinics, and coordinate food preparation.

Although the team returned to Santa Barbara, the profound impact of the journey continues to shape players and coaches, reinforcing the lasting value of global connection, empathy and community service.