Cornerback Zach Dilger instructs campers at the Hiawatha Community School's annual Field Day.
Minneapolis, Minnesota – Members of the Gustavus football team had the opportunity to take a break from their busy summer training program and take part in the coaching aspect of the sport at the Hiawatha Community School earlier this summer. Through Hiawatha physical education teacher Mario Galindo, the father of Gustavus assistant coach Ryan Galindo, the Gusties volunteered at the school’s annual Field Day.
“Our students loved the attention and the Gustavus players were terrific role models,” said Hiawatha Community School Principal Deb Regnier. “With their help, our staff was able to enjoy more of the day.”
The Gustie players organized and ran drills while also participating in relay races and a kickball game alongside the students.
“It was a great experience,” commented senior captain Muresuk Mena. “Service is something that is extremely important to us as Gusties, and Coach Haugen often communicates that point with the team. It was great for some of our guys to go out to an area in Minneapolis where not a lot of us are familiar and give back in any way we can. The day was fun and also humbling in that it made us appreciate the opportunities we have been given.”
The Gustavus Adolphus football team will report to fall training camp on Saturday, August 18. The Gusties will open the 2012 season in Indianola, Iowa with a non-conference test against Simpson College at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8.