Although summer means a break from athletic competition, University of Minnesota student-athletes and the MAGIC (Maroon and Gold Impacting the Community) program continue to make a difference within the community.
In late June, Gopher student-athletes visited Weaver Lake Elementary in Maple Grove and its Kidstop program. Speaking to the youngest students, the athletes talked about healthy diets (eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) as well as living an active lifestyle.
The student-athletes then spoke to fourth- through sixth-graders about the importance of living a tobacco-free lifestyle. Participating at the event were Milica McMillen and Lee Stecklein from women's hockey; Nicolle Murphy, Angela Guenther, and Alexandra Heifort from women's track; Vanessa Johnston from rowing; and Tereza Brichacova and Jessika Mozia from women's tennis.
Later that week, student-athletes and staff visited Feed My Starving Children. MAGIC partnered with other volunteers to pack 145 boxes to make 31,320 meals. With their contribution, the Gophers will help feed 86 children in the upcoming year. Participating were Shannon Brooks, Ray Buford, Zo Craighton, Demry Croft, Mose Hall, and Dior Johnson from football; Jack Sadek from men's hockey; Kevin Dorsey, Jarvis Johnson, and Dupree McBrayer from men’s basketball; Dalton Clark, Larry Early, and Robert Steveson from wrestling; and rowing's Vanessa Johnston.
"Having our student-athletes involved in community service is essential in our expectations of being ambassadors of the Maroon and Gold," said Assistant Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Development Peyton Owens III. "Our student-athletes giving of their time over the summer … speaks volumes to their belief in our greater vision and values, fostering excellence both inside and outside the lines of play."
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