Men's Basketball Remains Active in the Community
Oct. 15, 2010
‘Canes in the Community Photo Gallery
CORAL GABLES, FLA. – Although the start of the 2010-11 men’s basketball season is just around the corner, student-athletes on the University of Miami’s men’s basketball team have had more than basketball to focus on this fall as they have participated in several volunteer activities.
Earlier this month, redshirt freshman Donnavan Kirk and graduate student Adrian Thomas represented the team on International Walk to School Day at Auburndale Elementary School. As part of the WalkSafe program at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine, the program works to create safer routes for walking and emphasizes the importance of issues such as increased physical activity for children and pedestrian safety.
During the event, Kirk and Thomas joined the students, faculty and other community members in an assembly and a walk along a safe route around Auburndale Elementary School.
On Wednesday, student-athletes from the team visited the Miami Rescue Mission for the second-straight year, interacting and serving meals to the formerly homeless residing in the Center for Men.
“I know the Miami Rescue Mission provides excellent services and help for others, and we want to help them in their mission,” said Toby Lane, Associate Director of Basketball Operations for the Hurricanes. “I hope many others do as well… it will be well worth their time and effort, and I believe those who help will be paid back even more than they give.”
“It’s an unforgettable experience for our guys,” added head coach Frank Haith. “It’s eye-opening for some of them and helps them realize just how fortunate they are. As a coach, I enjoy watching my players mature, and experiences like these contribute to their growth as productive members of this community.”
After the team’s trip to Miami Rescue Mission last year, several players took off their shoes on the spot and donated them to the homeless.
The Hurricanes officially open team practice on Friday afternoon at the BankUnited Center, and will host the first of two exhibition games on Wed., Nov. 3, versus Barry at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information, please contact the Hurricane Ticket Office online at www.hurricanesports.com or by phone at 1-800-GO-CANES.
