VISTA, Calif.—The Cal State San Marcos volleyball team spent a day hanging out at the Vista Village Assisted Living Center, doing exercises, reading books, singing songs, and sharing laughs with the residents.

"We were truly blessed today to spend valuable time with some very special people," said head coach Andrea Leonard. "The spirit of kindness was evident in the smiles of both our players and the residents, we are very thankful to have this opportunity and look forward to continuing our relationship with our new friends in life!"

The Cougars were welcomed with smiles and open arms, and were immediately partnered up with residents where they began with daily exercises such as deep breathing, seated arm and leg extensions, and stretching. The team then began showing them various controlled seated volleyball techniques which allowed them further movement exercises, which the residents enjoyed.

Taking things even further, the Cougars used balloons to lightly hit back and forth which evolved into several games to keep the balloons from falling and in the air— a game that brought about many smiles, laughter and joy. Every student athlete partnered up with a resident and became friends, learning everyone's name.

From there, the team and residents participated in readings from Chicken Soup for the Soul together as a group. After that, a resident began playing the piano, song sheets were passed out and the group sang along to classic favorites such as Auld Lang Syne, My Wild Irish Rose, America the Beautiful.

The most enjoyable time for many of the Cougars was sharing stories and special one-on-one conversations. All in all, the Cougars made some new friends and a group of new fans. The residents plan to make a visit to the Cougars final home game October 18 against No. 20 Vanguard.