Tech Women\’s Soccer Team Participates in Reading Month Festivities in Local Community

The Michigan Tech women’s soccer team has helped local schools
participate in March is Reading Month by returning to their roots and reading to classes of elementary-aged students from Houghton and Chassell. The experience has given the athletes an opportunity to influence future potential Huskies off the field.

“I thought it would be nice to have our players get out in the community and make a difference,” said head coach Michelle Jacob.

Players from the team have gone into a fifth grade class at Houghton and a second grade class at Chassell. Before reading to the students, the players held a question and answer session lasting about 20 minutes in which they discussed life as a student-athlete and the level of commitment necessary to balance school and sport.

“They asked questions ranging from how far we travel to play our games, to who is the best player on our team,” said Jacob. “I feel that this could help spark their interest in sports as they grow up.”

The players and students read books ranging from Berenstain Bears to more advanced titles including a few with sports-related themes. At Houghton, the players read the books to groups of students. At Chassell, the students read their books to the players.

“It’s really something special to see young students excited about school and about learning,” said Sarah Hielsburg. “There’s nothing more contagious than the enthusiasm of a child and the inspiration it can have on others.”

They have one more trip to Houghton planned for later this week to read with another group of fifth graders.