NORMAL, Ill. – In each of the last six seasons, the Illinois State softball team has opened their campaigns at a tournament hosted by USF in Tampa, Florida; however, the Redbirds have been going down to Tampa every year dating back to the 2009 campaign.
For the ninth-straight year, Illinois State took time to visit students at Eisenhower Elementary School in Clearwater, Florida, on Feb. 7. The Redbirds worked with the fifth-grade girls at Eisenhower, teaching a lesson on goal setting and positive self-image.
"Going on the school visit in Florida has been an amazing experience, because we get to connect with young girls and serve as a role model for them," senior Ali Domkuski shared. "This year, we had the opportunity to talk about goals and having a positive self-image. As we broke down each of the goals they set for themselves, you could see their faces light up when they realized they had the ability to reach them.
"With the topic of self-image, we were able to help them recognize all of the unique qualities they each have. Meeting these girls helped show them, as well as us (the team), that with a little planning, and support from your friends, anything is achievable."
Looking ahead to next year's trip, ISU wants to continue making an impact, but also tie in what they know best – softball.
Illinois State softball has organized an equipment donation drive on April 27-28 at Marian Kneer Stadium. The Redbirds are looking for gently used softballs, bats and gloves that would be suitable for students in grades 4-6. A donation box will be placed at the entrance of Marian Kneer Stadium before the home-finale series against Loyola Chicago, and any equipment is greatly appreciated.
"The one thing that is really important, is our student-athletes do a great job of serving our community in Bloomington-Normal," said head coach Melinda Fischer. "It isn't always possible for them to do it as a team, so our opportunity to serve collectively at Eisenhower is neat. Relative to our work with the fifth graders, they are getting ready to make the transition into middle school and they have questions as to what is next. Our team has diversity and can serve as role models to show them that there are several different majors out there and different opportunities for what these kids can aspire to do when they get older."
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