SPECIAL FEATURE: The Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) softball team volunteered at The American Heart Association's Heart and Stroke Walk held at Nelson Wolff Stadium on Dec.12.

The American Heart Association is a non-profit organization that focuses on appropriate cardiac care with efforts to reduce disability and deaths caused by cardiovascular disease and stroke. The Heart and Stroke Walk is the organization's premier event which is hosted throughout numerous major cities across the United States. The event is designed to promote physical activity and heart-healthy living, as well as create an environment that is fun and rewarding for the entire family.

Sophomore pitcher Cheyanne Carter said, "It was great to see all the families come out and represent the ones they love and those who have been affected by heart issues and strokes." She added, "Everyone was able to come together with a common interest and just have a good time."

The Saints began the day by passing out programs and greeting participants as they arrived for the Heart and Stroke Walk. They then cheered on and motivated walkers along their route. After the walkers returned, the softball team then visited the event's surrounding sponsor tents.

"It's important for us to give back to the community and show them they have our support", said Carter. "It also gives us an opportunity to learn and grow as a team off the field."

OLLU athletics support the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Champions of Character program and its core values: respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership, and sportsmanship. By striving to follow these core values, Saints athletics is able to lead by example and positively impact the community. 

For more information on the Champions of Character program, follow the link: www.championsofcharacter.org