QUINCY, MA -- Lesley University's men's soccer team took time out of its preseason training schedule to volunteer in hosting a soccer clinic for America SCORES, a non-profit organization that combines soccer with literacy education.

The Lynx 25 student-athletes conducted a clinic consisting of four soccer stations for SCORES' 80 students on Moon Island in Boston's suburb of Quincy.

"The experience was great because we got to hang out with kids and teach them how to play our sport," said senior co-captain Ari Sinanis, "but it was as learning experience for everyone."

Fellow senior Stefan Kotsopoulos agreed, noting the bond the it built between the Lesley and SCORES teams, particularly with the new Lynx players.

"It united us as a team," he said. "It built more chemistry with us. It was fun to see our new players interact with all the kids."

According to the organization's website, "The mission of America SCORES Boston is to empower youth in Boston communities through an innovative combination of soccer leagues, writing, creative expression, and service-learning into a single after-school program."

Added Sinanis, one of several Lynx who visited SCORES for a second straight season, "We look forward to working with them in the future."

Lesley opens 2012 Friday at 7:30 p.m. against Eastern Nazarene at Edward Field in Cambridge.