MURFREESBORO – On April 18th over 50 football student-athletes, dressed in Chowan Blue t-shirts and shorts gathered near the practice football field. Head Football Coach, Tim Place, had gathered the group on so many occasions to lead them into competition, but on this day, the task he was prepping them for was to be completed in the community and not on the gridiron. Place, his staff, and his team were in for a day of community service activities through the Murfreesboro Baptist Church, a project titled “Project In As Much”. It was estimated that over 200 man-hours of labor was completed by the group of young men and coaches in this project.
The players and coaches carried out tasks such as building a handicapped ramp for a double amputee, raking yards, removing debris from the property, performing a multitude of outdoor maintenance tasks for C.A.D.A at the Headstart facilities in Murfreesboro.
Since the hiring of Head Coach Tim Place in April 2008, Coach Place has been active in the local community. In August 2008, Place hosted the first annual Community Night at Garrison Stadium. Over 75 fans met with the players and coaches and participated in activities such as the 40-yard dash, running pass routes, and throwing balls to the Chowan wide receiver core. Afterwards, the Hawks ran a short Blue and White scrimmage following the community event for the fans. Place also designated one home game in 2008 as a Cancer Awareness Night and helped to raise money for breast cancer research with the sale of t-shirts.
Place explained the importance of getting involved in Operation In As Much. “I think that anytime you have the opportunity to give back to the community that gives so much, its important” said Place. “We have the physical ability and manpower to help in some of these projects, so why not give back?” Place acknowledged.
U.S. Navy Lieutenant Terry D. Miles, who helped coordinate the project with the Murfreesboro Baptist Church, expressed his gratitude towards the players and coaches participating in the operation. “I think it is truly remarkable to know that the student-athletes have such dedicated and inspirational mentors within the coaching staff,” stated Miles. “Their behavior and actions on Saturday brought great credit to themselves, the coaching staff, and Chowan University” concluded Miles.
Later, Place explained the importance of his student-athletes participating in community service. “The feedback that I got from the players and coaches was all positive,” stated Place. “Some of our young men saw very humbling situations and they were able to help make a difference with just one afternoon of work. I think when it was all said and done, at the end of the day our players and coaching staff really understood the importance of what we were out there doing. The players represented Chowan University, the program, and themselves in a positive way and came away with a very rewarding personal experience” concluded Place.
For more information on Chowan University athletic programs volunteering in your community, please contact Meredith Long, (252)398-6468 or via email: longm@chowan.edu.
