Oct. 29, 2004

By: Patrick Clark -

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. - (Friday, October 29, 2004) It's no secret that student-athletes have to be well-versed in time management due to their responsibilities on the playing field as well as the classroom. These athletes barely have much time for themselves and the free time that they do have in way or the other is spent to improve themselves as a student and as an athlete.

There's another side of these special individuals; the giving side. A majority of student-athletes use that free time to improve themselves not in the classroom or the playing field but as a person. They give their time to the community and volunteer to help those less fortunate or for a cause that they believe in.

At Southeast Missouri State the student-athletes are perfect examples of the well-rounded student-athlete. On Friday evening the Southeast gymnastics team proved that fact.

Organized by head gymnastics coach Tom Farden and assistant gymnastics coach Andree' Pickens, the Southeast gymnastics team volunteered their time after practice to assist the local chapter of the Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau.

The gymnastics team helped organize and sort clothing at the Salvation Army Thrift Store located on 610 Independence Street. They also helped clean the store and prepare the store for their busiest time of the year. Winter time is when those needing winter clothes and gifts come to the store and purchase those items at a reduced rate.

Sophomore Lexie Hein carries a box of toys to be organized

The Salvation Army depends solely on donations and volunteer help to operate their stores and offices. The gymnastics team hopes to develop a future relationship with this organization and continue their giving to the community.

To ask for more information or to volunteer to assist the Salvation Army call 573-335-7000.