With the team having an off week from competition, the Georgia Southern football team spent last Thursday and Friday out in the community giving back to local schools and organizations through several community service initiatives.
"I think it's incredibly important to give back to the people who support us so well," said quarterback David Dalls. "It's such a blessing to have a community like we do. We truly love these opportunities and don't ever feel obligated to serve; it's our privilege! These people mean the world to us and we wanna make sure we never take them for granted. It's our way to say thank you to all the unwavering support!"
On Thursday, members of the squad helped out at five different spots. A group went to Julia P. Bryant Elementary and worked with car rider pick-up and also read to classes while another group went to Langston Chapel Elementary for car rider pick-up, reading, and mentoring. Members of the team also visiting Southern Manor Senior Living to read and play games with its residents and another group helped with community clean up with Keep Statesboro-Bulloch Beautiful. A final group participated in mentoring with the Boys and Girls Club.
On Friday, the groups were back out in full force at many of the same locations but also worked with Habitat for Humanity to stock shelves, move furniture and organize supplies.
"Community service is an important aspect of the athletic department and these service events are examples of our commitment to being servant leaders and giving back to the fans that support our teams," said Gleen Hart, senior associate AD for student-athlete development. "Football will be visiting several areas of the community and serving as positive role models for fans of all ages and helping those in need."
The team returns to game action on Saturday, Oct. 14 at James Madison (12 p.m.; ESPN2) before returning home for a pair of games against ULM (10/21) and Georgia State (10/26). Tickets for all games can be purchased at GSEagles.com/Tickets.