ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The University of New Mexico women’s basketball team continued its dedication to community service on Thursday afternoon as it visited North Star Elementary School to visit a group of kindergartners. The Lobos spent time talking to the group about the importance of school, how they became Lobo basketball players and also ventured outside to help the students sharpen their basketball skills.
The visit to North Star Elementary is not the first community service outing the team has had this season. Earlier this month, the squad also went out to the 2016 Balloon Fiesta to offer its assistance.
“Our team definitely takes pride in our community here in Albuquerque and enjoys getting out there to help out,” first season head coach Mike Bradbury said. “It is a great opportunity for them to serve as role models in the community, and also get in some team bonding. Today’s visit to North Star was a great one, I think everyone really enjoyed it, both the players and the kids.”
The Lobos talked with the students about several topics, ranging from “what do you want to be when you grow up” to how to actually play basketball, before working on passing and shooting fundamentals on the playground.
“It’s always a great feeling to give back to the community who supports us,” junior Cherise Beynon said. “We were all kids once so coming out to talk to the kids today meant a lot to everyone. We want to be leaders in our community and inspire young kids.”
The Lobos’ season kicks off with an exhibition contest on Tuesday, Nov. 1 against Fort Lewis in WisePies Arena – The Pit. Prior to the season, the team will host an open practice on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. that will include a post-practice autograph session.