GUILFORD ATHLETES HAVE HEART

By Dave Walters and Nicolle Holcombe

Members of Guilford's women's basketball team spent time playing games and socializing with residents at the Brookdale Senior Living Center.

Guilford College's Quaker roots laid the ground work for its Core Values. For its student athletes, the pillars of community and stewardship are at the forefront of their commitment to community service throughout their time at the College.

From volunteering at local elementary schools and helping relocate refugee families, to building tiny homes for the homeless and visiting with residents at senior-living facilities, Guilford student-athletes make time in between practice, competitions and classes to give back.

Many of Guilford’s coaches encourage and facilitate full-team community service activities to show studentathletes that there are things that matter outside of school and sports. Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach Charlotte Dixon says it is important for her athletes to get to know the community and area off campus. “Learning that there are small things that they can do with their time to make a difference in someone else’s life is of value,” Charlotte said. “I hope they carry that sentiment throughout their lives.”

Logan Shortt ’20, of Guilford’s baseball team, says volunteering allows him and other student-athletes to leave the “bubble” of the Guilford campus.

Members of Guilford's women's lacrosse team taught skills to local elementary students.

In addition to experiencing personal growth through acts of service, many of Guilford’s teams volunteer to help grow their specific sports within the Triad. Charlotte’s team visits Greensboro elementary schools to teach children the basics of lacrosse during physical education classes. The Quakers also volunteer with youth lacrosse programs. Not only does this help to introduce children to the sport, it also invites new fans and friends to the program. “It’s the best to see some of the kids we work with coming to watch our games and support our team,” Charlotte said.

According to the NCAA, more than 80 percent of student-athletes volunteer at least once a year, with 44 percent serving a few hours a month. Division III has an established partnership with Special Olympics, and many programs work with local chapters to help staff or create events and help fundraise.

In 2016, the Guilford baseball team spent a day with local tennis Special Olympians by keeping match scores and encouraging the athletes. Logan said that day was impactful for him and his teammates as they were inspired by the determination of the Special Olympians and the volunteers who work with them.

Coaches and administrators want to create exemplary ambassadors of Guilford’s core values. Associate Head Men’s Basketball Coach Ronnie Thomas says, “Establishing service in our student-athletes will hopefully lay the foundation for them to go into the real world and give their time, effort and finances to uplift others. It’s about being a positive influence to the world and the only way to do that is to give and share your experience.”