Nov. 26, 2007

GREENVILLE, N.C. - For many East Carolina University students, the holiday season means a rush of exams and searching for those perfect Christmas gifts before heading home for break. Pirate student-athletes took time out of this schedule to give back to the community that supports them all year.

Each year, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee encourages participation from fellow teammates to gather food for the Food Bank of Eastern North Carolina. Many different methods are employed to gather the cans such as going door-to-door requesting donations, collecting from friends and family, raiding their cabinets and collecting from the participants in their clinics. This year, the total donation doubled last year's number. Ultimately, 3,883 cans were donated which weighed in at 2,926 pounds. Additionally, approximately 2,464 meals were provided.

The softball team led all squads, donating 2,042 cans. Volleyball was second with 488 cans while the men's and women's tennis squads combined to give 450. Women's golf rounded out the top five with 110 cans.

Erin St. Ledger (Softball Representative): "Every year we try to surpass the year before. Our team really came together this time to make sure Thanksgiving would be special for the less fortunate. We are so happy for the opportunity."

Paige Clark (SAAC Secretary and Women's Cross Country Representative): "It's great to be part of an organization that has the ability to come together and donate our efforts towards the people who appreciate our assistance the most this time of year."

Henrique Viana (SAAC Vice President and Men's Tennis Representative): "It is so rewarding to see that we as athletes have the ability to help others so much by giving just a little of our time and efforts. Donating cans is the perfect example of how to help others in need by simply giving of our time and money to buy food. My team of only 10 players was able to donate more than 250 cans. This, combined with the effort of other teams, was crucial in helping make this the best drive ever."

Jamie Quinn (SAAC Advisor/Community Service Coordinator): "This was by far the most food we have ever collected. It was amazing to see the students come together as a big team for this cause. This time of year it is so important to consider the less fortunate out there who need our help. We love the opportunity to say thank you for the support this town gives us."