JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Dec. 14, 2011) – The ETSU softball team was busy giving back to the community this holiday season.

The Bucs, who spent the last month and a half volunteering their time at numerous organizations, helped bring the holiday spirit to those in need.

“Every holiday season we like to give back to the community in more ways than one,” said head coach Brad Iwrin. “I feel like our team is very fortunate and understands the importance of helping others during this time of year. We’re very proud of their efforts and we look forward to continued involvement in our community.”  

The softball team began their efforts in October by collecting and donating candy for the Coalition for Kids “Trunk or Teat” Halloween event. The Bucs also worked with Coalition for Kids earlier this month, as ETSU helped with “Shopping for Others” – which the project consisted of players and coaches being paired with a child to spend $100 at WalMart to help them select an outfit of clothing, a winter coat, one toy for them, and one gift for another member of their family.

In addition to volunteering their time with Coalition for Kids, the Bucs also visited the Four Oaks Nursing Home in Jonesborough, while also spending time helping with the Red Kettle Christmas Campaign by ringing bells and taking donations for the Salvation Army. The team spent time visiting with the elderly at the nursing home five times during the month of November and volunteered with the Salvation Army on two different occasions for four hours each day.  

The Bucs wrapped up their community service efforts by again giving back to the Salvation Army as the team collected toys and other gifts for their Angel Tree program. The program is designed to give presents to children who normally wouldn’t be receiving gifts on Christmas.

The ETSU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics takes pride in its community service activities and strives for 100 percent participation from its student-athletes, coaches and administrators throughout the year.

For more information on Buccaneer softball, visit www.ETSUBucs.com.