UM Spends a Day in the Sun with Local Fifth Graders
MONTEVALLO, Ala. – On Thursday April 15 the University of Montevallo Athletic Department joined forces with Montevallo Connection to give 110 fifth graders an experience of higher education and collegiate athletics at the University of Montevallo. Something they will never forget! The purpose of the Montevallo Connection is to re-energize and further strengthen the partnership between the University of Montevallo faculty and the faculty in the Montevallo schools. The Montevallo Connection is dedicated to cultural, educational, athletic and professional exchanges that will enhance the educational experiences of both students in the Montevallo public schools and those at the University of Montevallo.
The Future Falcon program is an outgrowth of the Montevallo Connection initiative that focuses on providing structured campus activities and mentoring experiences to students that promote interest in pursuing a higher education. The middle school students, nicknamed the “Future Falcons” for the day, accompanied by their Assistant Principal, Bart Ferguson, toured the University and then got the opportunity to participate in some of the collegiate sports played on campus.
University of Montevallo student-athletes, coaches, and athletic department staff volunteered their time to play basketball, soccer, baseball, tennis and volleyball with the students.
“It was a great opportunity for everyone to have a good time playing and working together,” said head volleyball coach Katie O’Brien. “Being able to go over correct techniques for our respected sports was great and we hope that each student learned something new. I really enjoyed interacting with the young students.”
Following two hours of vigorous games the University of Montevallo student-athletes, coaches, and staff hosted a pizza picnic behind the Student Activities Center for the visiting students and teachers.
“You could see the excitement on the student’s faces and they thought about what they might be able to do with their futures,” said assistant women’s soccer coach Stacey Balaam. “The day was a great opportunity for the children to get involved in some collegiate sports under the guidance of the coaching staff at the University. It was great to see their eyes light up as we gave them tours of our facilities.”
For more information regarding Montevallo Connection and Future Falcons please visit www.montevallo.edu/ci/mc/home.shtm or contact Hollie C. Cost (205) 665-6367.
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