The University of Montevallo’s Track and Field team has been hard at work getting ready for the new season.

Like most athletes, these members are busy with weightlifting, practices and classes. However, that has not stopped them from giving back to the community.

Every Wednesday this semester, the team spends the afternoon at the Boys and Girls Club here in Montevallo.

Assistant coach, Jaquarius Wilson, says they had a team member who works there. “And she came to us with the opportunity to be able to go out there and create a space for our athletes to give back,” says Wilson.

Helping out at the club has not only made an impact on the team, but also on the kids. They look forward to the team’s visit each week. They enjoy having someone to play with and talk to.

Unit Director Joshua Weeks has seen the positive impact UM’s Track and Field team has had on the kids and encourages more programs to come out.

“But, you know, it’s kind of like having an older brother or sister,” says Weeks. “Or a friend that they can go shoot basketball with, or twister or whatever it is they want to do.”

The Track and Field team’s season began last Friday, an earlier start than they are used to, and will end in May.