Softball Gives Back To Local Veterans
WEST HARTFORD, Conn. – The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) softball team showed once again what it means to be a student-athlete, as they sponsored and hosted a bingo night at the Veterans Home & Hospital in Rocky Hill, Connecticut.
Players spent hours setting up Bingo, calling numbers, passing out prizes, and just spending time with the 50 plus Veterans during the games. Veterans received gift cards for a variety of stores.
Softball head coach Jim McKinnon is the former Director of Residential and Rehabilitation Services at the Veterans Home, while assistant coach Jim Valenti currently works there as a Residential Supervisor. This was the inaugural USJ Softball bingo night at the Veterans home, and the coaching staff says the night was nothing short of a huge success.
"They already asked when we are coming back," said junior right fielder Bianca Pappacoda (East Haven, Conn.).
Pappacoda discussed the importance of non-profit work, and said it was great seeing everybody get out of their comfort zone, something that can make a difference as the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament draws near.
"It's really important for team chemistry. It brings us together, and with the success on the field so far, it's the little things that can add that extra element of chemistry."
Up Next
The season is down to its last week of regular season action. USJ will look to remain in first in the GNAC South in a GNAC doubleheader on Saturday, April 27, at 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. against Simmons (MA).
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