Members of the Austin High School girls soccer team cracked open books and headed to the classrooms early this year to read to Sumner students.

Austin High’s soccer coach, Enrique Camarena-Corzo is a success coach at Sumner Elementary school and he invited his players to spend some time with the students there.

“Many kids in our community are not read to on a regular basis. Research has shown that being read to increases one’s ability to read proficiently.” said Camarena-Corzo. “ The girls did a great job.”

“It was fun to go into classrooms that we were once in and read to the kids. said Rebekah Simmerson, a junior midfielder for the Packers. “They were so excited. I hope to be able to do it again.”

The girls divided into groups and went into the classrooms and took turns reading to the students. Often reading books that were their favorites like The BFG by Roald Dahl.

“We work hard on the field during practices and games but we also have to be good students in school,” said Kristen Carlson, a senior defender. “I hope by reading to the kids we showed them school is important too and reading can be fun.” said Kristen Carlson.

Sumner Elementary is on a 45/15 schedule and began the 2012-13 school year on July 31. The girls’ soccer team kicks off its season Thursday in Fairmont.

Their first home game is Aug. 28 against rival Albert Lea.

“I have a great bunch of students both on the soccer field and at Sumner Elementary,” Camarena-Corzo said.