Despite having to balance their long practices, school work, and endless number of commitments to extracurricular activities, the Valparaiso High School's football players always find a way to give back to the community in anyway they can. The VHS football players volunteered at the work site of ValPlayso on the morning of Sunday, October 12.
This is only one of the projects that the high school athletes do in attempt to give back to the community. The team has also partnered up with Memorial Elementary School and created a pen pal program in which the players get a chance to write letters and act as role models for younger students.
VHS freshman football player Reece Staples said, "I think it's a really good idea having high school students participate in the process of rebuilding ValPlayso. It's bittersweet for us because we've had so many old memories at the old park, but it's a fresh start for the upcoming generation."
The students did everything from shoveling dirt to painting at the work site. The coaches and managers accompanied the students. VHS student football managers Abigail Stewart, Gabby Harper, and Carissa Steele also volunteered and were more than excited to be part of the rebuilding process.
Stewart said, "It means a lot that the players voluntarily decide to help out the community. They're a great group and are definitely role models for so many in Valpo."
In conclusion, it is evident that the rebuilding of ValPlayso is bringing the community together in many different ways. The high school football team isn't the only organization to help out—VHS's Key Club, United Way's Power of Youth, and even elementary school students are participating in its renovation. Students are able to learn the importance of giving back while also having a great time.