Advertisement

“Part of our athletics value statement is that the kids should give back to the community, because somewhere along the way, someone has given to them,” said Greg Brynaert, athletic director at Romeo High School.

Fall sports teams, of which there are several, including tennis, soccer, swimming and dance, saw participation from more than 400 students this year.

Brynaert said each team finds a different way to contribute to the community, but each is meaningful to the athletes and those they help.

One activity included students volunteering at a local gas station to clean windows and pump gas, then using the tips they received to buy toys for needy families in the area.

Some teams worked on cleaning up school grounds, performing for senior citizens and giving clinics to children on the sports in which they participate.

“Our largest event is when the football and hockey teams help out at the breast cancer walk,” said Brynaert, who added that students worked for several hours on things like setting up tents and carrying food. “That has been greatly appreciated by the people who come to our games and cheer on our kids. We want those kids, for short period of time, to stop thinking about themselves.

“I’m extremely proud,” Brynaert continued. “There may always be a little grumbling before, but once they get in and get doing it they really, really like it. They have the opportunity to compete at the high school level, in a quality program. They can look back and say they appreciate having that opportunity.”

Students who participate in winter and spring athletics at the high school also take part in various community service programs. Brynaert said this is the first time he has added up the community service hours from his fall teams.

“They really take some pride in it. That is hopefully what it is all about,” he said. “Hopefully they get older, more mature and understand the importance of giving something back.”