A star from the world of soccer was in Saskatoon Saturday, taking part in a special event organized by Canada Soccer, FIFA and the Saskatchewan Soccer Association.

The Live Your Goals Festival is aimed at young female athletes. In Saskatoon, dozens of players met Karina LeBlanc — a noted star of Canadian soccer.

LeBlanc, who enjoyed an accomplished career as a professional player and competed internationally with Canada's national team, said the goal of the festival was to encourage young people to pursue their dreams and recognize their potential.

Karina LeBlanc hopes to encourage young athletes to be leaders in whatever field they pursue. (CBC)

In the morning, girls aged 13 to 17 participated in sessions that focused on leadership and coaching skills as well as self-confidence.

Most of the afternoon was spent on soccer skills and just having fun.

"Just getting out here and participating," LeBlanc said. "Seeing the joy of the game. Seeing some of the lessons of the game [and] being around people who enjoy the game and the passion. So that they leave here and they literally are like, 'This is one of the best days of my life.'"