New Braunfels, Texas - As we come to the close of February, American Southwest Conference schools have continued to engage their local communities in many ways. From local schools, international trips, and national awards, the impact of ASC members continues to be felt throughout the community and globally.
East Texas Baptist
Student-athletes at East Texas Baptist have engaged in community involvement on both local and international levels throughout December and January.
In December, the beach volleyball team embarked on a seven-day mission trip to Roatan, Honduras, partnering with the International Sports Foundation. During their time abroad, the Tigers hosted volleyball camps within the Roatan community, shared their faith, and competed against local teams on the beach.
In January, the track & field and cross country teams traveled to Belize for a seven-day mission trip. While there, student-athletes partnered with local churches, led worship and vacation Bible school, painted schools, made crafts with preschoolers, and hosted a track & field clinic for the community.
Closer to home in Marshall, the volleyball and men’s soccer teams volunteered with Hallsville and Marshall ISD elementary schools, greeting students with “High Fives” in the mornings. Several teams also participated in Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine in February, continuing their outreach efforts within the community.
Hardin-Simmons
Hardin-Simmons student-athletes were active throughout December and January, highlighted by the Cowboys basketball team’s participation in the NABC and American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers Week. This national initiative raises awareness and funds in support of the fight against cancer. Cowboys players and coaches honored loved ones impacted by cancer while supporting the mission to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
The Cowgirl softball team has also remained active in the Abilene community, partnering with the local school district for High Five Fridays this semester, greeting and encouraging students as they arrive at school.
Howard Payne
Howard Payne student-athletes continue to engage their community through a variety of service initiatives. The basketball teams regularly visit local schools to read to students and assist with PE classes and recess.
The football team continues to volunteer at several area schools, including San Saba High School and Brady High School, assisting with powerlifting meets. By encouraging and supporting high school athletes, HPU student-athletes continue to strengthen relationships between the university and surrounding communities.
During Coaches vs. Cancer week in January, the HPU men’s basketball team also held a pregame ceremony to honor individuals affected by cancer and raise awareness for the cause.
Mary Hardin-Baylor
After a successful TOUCHDOWNS event in October, Mary Hardin-Baylor was recognized nationally, winning the NADIIIAA Community Partnerships Award. This was the eighth annual year that UMHB has hosted the event which honors individuals with special needs. The TOUCHDOWNS event gives participants the chance to join the cheerleaders and dancers on the sideline, and run on the field to score a touchdown during halftime. Despite weather concerns, more than 145 participants registered, with approximately 90 taking part in activities such as spirit stations, face painting, sign-making, photo booths, and more. Student-athletes served as buddies and facilitated games throughout the event.
In December, the UMHB women’s basketball team volunteered at Chisolm Elementary’s Polar Express Night. The Cru operated a basketball station, rebounding and playing with students, while also assisting with set up and wherever needed to ensure a successful evening for students and families.
Read about More About ASC Community Engagement
ETBU Cross Country & Track in Belize
ETBU Beach Volleyball in Honduras
UMHB Wins NADIIIA Community Partnerships Award