May 1, 2009

EASTON, Pa. - In the midst of its spring season, the Lafayette women's soccer team took off the cleats and put on the walking shoes last Saturday to take part in the third annual Lehigh Valley Walk Now for Autism.

The squad was part of a group of 9,000 participants, a significant increase from the 5,000 walkers in 2008, in the Lehigh Parkway in Allentown, Pa. The walkers, part of 357 walking groups, raised more than $410,000 in support of Autism Speaks' initiatives, including research, family services, government relations and awareness.

Today, one in 150 children is diagnosed with autism, including 67 children each day. Four out of every five are boys. The United States spends approximately $35 billion each year. To date, there is no medical detection or cure for autism.

For the women's soccer program, the walk is something that had a little extra meaning. Matthew Statham, youngest son of head coach Mick Statham, was diagnosed with autism days before his third birthday. Now age 12, Matthew attends the Centennial School in Bethlehem, Pa. and is a major part of the program, attending practices and most games.

"My wife and I really appreciate our team coming and supporting Matthew and the walk for autism," Statham said. "Community service is important to the team, but obviously this is a little closer to home. The walk was a tremendous success, made even better by having our team walk with us."

For more information on the Lehigh Valley Walk Now for Autism, click click here.