Sept. 23, 2010
DAVIS, Calif. - It's a special privilege for student-athletes to play basketball at the collegiate level. It's even more of a privilege to use that opportunity to give back to the community. With the 2010-11 season quickly approaching, the UC Davis men's basketball team recently took time away from their preseason conditioning, to get involved in multiple service projects. In the past week, the Aggies worked with Habitat for Humanity in Yolo County, before taking the time to visit with children at Shriners Hospital.
On Thursday, Sept. 16, Aggie players and coaches traded in their sneakers for work boots, in an effort to build and renovate simple, decent affordable houses for very low-income families. The UC Davis team worked from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., for a family that will enjoy their future home in Woodland. While in Woodland, the Aggies had various jobs in the overall construction of the house, including roof work, interior ceiling beams and rafters.
While the Aggies completed a good amount of work in their time with Habitat for Humanity, the house will be finished based on how much volunteer support they receive on a weekly basis in the future.
On Wednesday, Sept. 22, UC Davis student-athletes took a few hours in the evening to visit with children patients at Shriners Hospital in Sacramento. Many of the players didn't have to dig too deep to bring out their inner child, playing various games with the children, including video games, card games, pool, air hockey and even dancing. While the mood was light and time spent with the kids was enjoyable, the importance of the visit was not lost on players and coaches.
Shriners Hospitals for Children is a health care system of 22 hospitals dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to age 18 with orthopaedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay.
While UC Davis is focused on a competitive 2010-11 schedule, head coach Gary Stewart also understands the value of community service.
"Community service is a crucial part of the educational experience. A fulfilling and meaningful life is created through service to others," said Stewart. "Community service helps define your values and morals, while experiencing diversity which enhances your mind and spirit. You learn a lot about your strength, compassion and vulnerability."
Further information about how to get involved with Habitat for Humanity can be found on the HFHYC web site at www.habitatyolo.org. You can also visit www.shrinershq.org for information on ways to give to children in need.
