PRINCESS ANNE, Md. — As many of the students, athletes, families, alumni and staff already know, the Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Department of Intercollegiate Athletics features many women among its ranks, playing and work in a wide variety of sports and occupations.
On Friday, many of them teamed together in one common purpose—to help the local Lower Shore community.
Members of the athletic staff and the Hawks volleyball team volunteered their time and talents to the renowned charity Habitat for Humanity, an organization that builds homes for people in need across the United States. The ladies worked with the local chapter in Wicomico County to help construct a home near Salisbury. Volleyball players alone accounted for 72 hours of service combined in one day.
The entire volleyball team—players, managers and coaches—were involved either in the organizing of the day or helping out on Friday.
Senior Petra Jerabkova enjoyed her experience assisting the community.
“We had a lot of fun learning new things like using a saw,” she said. “It also made us happy that we could actually do something for families in need by helping build their future homes.”
Junior Haley Robinson added, “It was an extremely rewarding experience that we were all grateful to be a part of. Knowing that all of the work we did helped families in need gives all of us a sense of wellness.”
From the front office, Director of Compliance Neema Connor volunteered her time along with Academics Director Collene Dean, Administrative Assistant Anne Carter and SAAC coordinator Talareah Campbell. Marketing and Game Day Operations Coordinator Airis Thomas was also on hand from media relations, and Assistant Athletic Trainer Keri Lapinski and Strength and Conditioning Director LaShawn Nastrovogel lent their talents as well.
“It was cool.” said Thomas. “There was lots of hard work and it was hot, but it was great to assist in such a good cause.”
The homes which the Hawk volunteers helped to build will go to an elderly couple and their grandson along with a youth pastor and his family.