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CBS News
6 hours ago
- Climate
- CBS News
Aurora FC changes kickoff time to keep players and fans safe in extreme heat
Kick off for Sunday's Aurora FC game got pushed back to 7:30 p.m. because of the extreme heat warning in place. It's a step to keep players, staff and fans safe. "We just have to try and be as proactive as possible," said Saara Hassoun, chief of staff for Aurora FC. "It gets so hot on that turf, even hotter than were all feeling out here in this environment. When you step on that turf, it's a good 10-15 degrees hotter because of the way the sun absorbs and reflects." Aurora FC has battled high temps before. In 2022, their inaugural season, they put large fans on the sidelines and tents to keep people in the shade when they're not on the field. Tents were on the sidelines again on Sunday, along with mandatory hydration breaks in each half. They also made exceptions for fans to bring their own sealed, store-bought water. "You can always bring an empty water bottle because we do have water fountains available for free throughout the stadium," said Hassoun. Others on Sunday did not slow down in the heat. Painter Park, off Lyndale Avenue in South Minneapolis, was busy with people getting exercise. Friends Quinn O'Keefe and Elliot Hicks play basketball several times a week and the temperature didn't stop them. "There was a big debate on whether or not to play basketball, but we decided that we're about it and ball is life, so we had to come out here, but we made sure to bring lots of water," said Hicks. "Exactly," said O'Keefe. "It's hot, but our hoop dreams our hotter." Skateboarders still got out at the park too, but extra water breaks were necessary. "I think because it's so hot today there's not too many people, which is chill, but the wind is keeping somewhat manageable," said Sean Pearson, a skateboarder.
CBS News
19-05-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Minnesota Aurora FC tackling mental health this season
Aurora Football Club is gearing up and expecting another undefeated season with a deep playoff run. While winning is always top of mind for this team, so is something even bigger than them. "A lot times, especially as women, you're told just to come and get the job done, don't be emotional and just do the work," said Aurora rookie defender Elizabeth Overberg. Overber is used to playing under pressure with the Gophers. But she's grateful now to be continuing her soccer career at a higher level with a team focused on destigmatizing mental health. "The whole reason we're out here playing soccer is because we love it and it's something that's supposed to add to our lives, and a lot of times sports can become negative and take from our lives," Overberg said. New this season, Aurora FC is partnering with NAMI Minnesota and a group called "We Are 8" that focuses on building a healthy digital space. Dani Young, a former professional soccer player herself, is leading this partnership. They're not only providing the players with mental health resources, but fans too. Before every game, players will warm up in jerseys sharing the 988 suicide crisis hotline to remind people watching that free help is available. WCCO "Then at the end of the year we're going to sign those and auction them off and the proceeds are going to go to NAMI," explained Young. There will also be a "mindful moment" before every home game where fans are encouraged to put down their devices and connect with other fans through high fives, hugs, or words of kindness. New Aurora FC head coach Jen Larrick is a big supporter of this new initiative. "Sports is a stressful, crazy thing to go into and if we're going to ask them to do that and play in front of thousands of people, we have to have the support so they can take care of themselves," said Larrick. It's a consistent reminder that as we watch a sport we love together, we are not alone. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, get help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Trained crisis counselors are available 24 hours a day to talk about anything.
