FOLSOM, Calif. — Sacramento Republic FC has been "rolling out the ball" at Folsom State Prison the last seven years, and you'd be amazed how much a soccer ball and positive attitude gives hope to so many people.
It's big part of the reason why Tuesday morning was no ordinary morning at Folsom State Prison.
"Today is a special day," said Solomon Ruiz, who is currently incarcerated at Folsom State Prison. "What it means to me is the ability to wake up and have something to do with my life."
On this particular morning, a special group of 32 incarcerated persons were selected to take part in a fun activity.
"This is a blessing," said German Lopez, who is also incarcerated at Folsom State Prison. "Having people come out from the street. It's like that sun beaming in from outside. You bring that light into prison."
Sacramento Republic FC is holding a training session on the yard. It's something that they've been doing monthly over the last seven years.
"Being in prison, for me, there was a time when I feel like I really didn't have a purpose," Ruiz said. "And today, waking up, being out here with all these gentlemen, gives me a sense of purpose."
"With Sacramento FC coming in every month, it's awesome," added Sergio Mejia, who's also incarcerated at Folsom State Prison. "It motivates us and encourages us to continue doing the things we're doing, so we can get back out there and do these things for the community and giving back to them instead of taking from them."
And it's not just rewarding for those who are incarcerated, it's rewarding for the players as well.
"It's great to bring a little bit of positivity for them," said Luis Felipe, a midfielder for Sacramento Republic FC. "Entertain them for the day. It gives us a different perspective of life."
"This program has been incredible for us and the inmates," added Todd Dunivant, president and general manager of Sacramento Republic FC. "It's really special. When you're here, you can feel the mutual respect and mutual love that comes out of it. It's as simple as just rolling out the ball."
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