Avila University 4th Annual Sports Sampler Badge Program Impacts Over 200 Area Youth

Posted 04.22.08
Story submitted by Anthony Hall, Avila University

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In early March the women’s athletic teams of Avila University welcomed 204 junior level Girl Scouts to their Mabee Fieldhouse for their 4th annual Sports Sampler badge program. The Girl Scouts represented 29 troops from the Northeast Kansas and Northwest Missouri Council. Some traveled from as far away as Wamego, Kansas to spend the day with Avila’s women athletes.

The day was spent going through nine stations representing the requirements for the Sports Sampler badge. Working with Avila University’s Women’s Basketball, Softball, Golf, Soccer, Volleyball, Cheer, and Dance teams, the girls learned three skills in each sport. They also spent time with the athletic trainers learning about common sports injuries, their treatment and prevention. One session referred to as Her Story allowed the troops to ask questions of the athletes and coaches about being a college athlete and woman in today’s sport world. All 204 Girl Scouts performed the cheer they learned from Avila’s Cheer Team for their leaders and parents that were present. Proper stretching and cool down techniques were also presented at the beginning and end of the day.

Avila University participates in the Heart of America Athletic Conference and is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. Just like the early founding Sisters, Avila creates opportunities for its athletes to provide community service programs through Champions of Character in order to “help their dear neighbor.”

To learn about Avila University visit www.avila.edu.