Sacramento’s new professional soccer club will wear jerseys emblazoned with “UC Davis Children’s Hospital” under a three-year, exclusive partnership announced last week.

"Teaming with Sacramento Republic FC is a great way for UC Davis Children’s Hospital to educate younger generations about the benefits of healthy living and raise awareness among all soccer fans that physical activity is essential to good health," said Ann Madden Rice, the UC Davis Medical Center’s chief executive officer.

Sac Republic FC and the children’s hospital worked together last July on Sacramento Soccer Day, demonstrating “how effective this partnership can be as a way to make a difference in the well-being of children, young adults and our entire community,” Madden said.

The hospital will be Sac Republic’s “season presenting partner” and official medical provider. The UC Davis Medical Center, including a team of physicians led by Eric Giza and Jeff Tanji of the Sports Medicine Program, will take care of the medical end of the deal.

Children's hospital benefit: A Sacramento gallery will host a reception and art sale, Wednesday (Dec. 11).

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