Science Meets Soccer at Allianz Field
St. Catherine University joined forces with Minnesota United FC and the nonprofit Athletes Committed to Educating Students (ACES) for the second annual Minnesota United STEM Day, turning Allianz Field into a vibrant laboratory of curiosity on July 15.
The event, held on a sunny Wednesday in St. Paul, brought together nearly 100 young participants who explored hands‑on experiments that linked physics, biology and mathematics to the dynamics of soccer.
Faculty and students from St. Kate’s designed interactive stations covering athletic training, neuroscience and occupational therapy, allowing the youth to test reflexes, learn about brain function and discover how therapy can improve performance.
The Wildcat soccer team, mascot Katie Cat and PK the United mascot, alongside coaching staff, led a clinic on the Great Lawn, with St. Kate’s players guiding drills and answering questions.
Bella Meier, a soccer captain and class of 2026, reflected on the impact of the day, noting how the excitement of the youngsters about STEM was as contagious as a goal celebration.
Each participant received a workbook packed with lessons crafted by St. Kate’s faculty, along with take‑home activities and branded items from St. Catherine University, Minnesota United and Xcel Energy, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the partnership.
The success of the event highlighted the university’s commitment to community outreach, leveraging its athletics department and the Office of Scholarly Engagement to inspire the next generation of scientists and athletes.