CORAL GABLES, Fla. – During the Thanksgiving holiday, it is important to realize all that we are thankful for, while giving back. The Illinois State women's basketball team did just that during its holiday trip to Miami, Florida, over Thanksgiving break. On Wednesday, the Illinois State women's basketball team took timeout of its busy schedule to volunteer at a local school.
At the G.W. Carver Elementary School, the Redbirds interacted with the students, ranging in age from kindergarten to fifth grade, prior to the school's early dismissal. Head coach Barb Smith pointed out how important it was for the student-athletes to give back during their team trip.
"I think anytime you can do community service it helps you remember it's not just about basketball," Smith said. "It is much bigger than that. When you get a chance to give back to the community and see the expressions of the children, it puts everything into perspective. I think our team needs to see that and remember it."
Once everyone from Illinois State was introduced and after a brief activity, the Redbirds and the students interacted one-on-one and took a picture before school released for the holiday break.
Senior guard Katy Winge pointed out how important it is to give back.
"Visiting the elementary school was amazing," Winge said. "The kids were so excited to see us and were so full of life. We spent some time talking about Thanksgiving and despite them having less than a lot of people, they all had things to be thankful for. My favorite moment was when one of the little boys said Thanksgiving is about being grateful for what you have right now. It is easy to get caught up in our busy lives, but visiting this school helped put thing back into perspective."
After their time at the school came to an end, Illinois State went back to work to get ready for the 2014 Miami Thanksgiving Tournament. ISU will compete in the Miami Thanksgiving Tournament, Friday-Saturday, Nov. 28-29. ISU opens the tournament against Miami Friday at noon (CST). Depending on the outcome of the game, they will face either Tulsa or Buffalo Saturday at 2 p.m. (CST).
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