Elementary Students Buzz with MSUB Coaches and Student-Athletes

BILLINGS, Mont. – Yellowjacket coaches and student-athletes at Montana State University Billings will mentor close to 400 elementary school students in a community outreach program on Tuesday, April 13, 2010.  The 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. event will include students in grades 4-6 from Washington, Orchard, Ponderosa and Broadwater elementary schools.

“We look forward to having this opportunity for our coaches and student-athletes to be able to interact in an active, fun environment with hundreds of young children,” MSUB Athletic Director Dr. Gary Gray said.  “I know the elementary school kids will gain a lot from the experience, and I am certain our coaches and student-athletes will as well.”

The attendees will be “abuzz” with activity as they have the opportunity to interact with the Yellowjacket coaches and student-athletes throughout the event.  The students will be divided into 14 groups, each of which will rotate through sport and theme-specific sessions arranged in 15-minute blocks.  Twelve MSUB coaches and their student-athletes will direct the sessions, focusing on their respective sports and providing each attendee a chance to play and learn more about the 17 intercollegiate sports fielded by MSUB.

Activities will take place in both gyms, Cenex Stadium, and Bjorgum Field.  In the event of inclement weather, all athletic stations will be held inside the P.E. Building.  In addition, students will enjoy a box lunch and walking tour of the MSUB campus, including visits to the University’s library and science buildings. 

“This event is a great opportunity for our students to actually be on a college campus and work with the coaches and college athletes,” Washington Elementary School Principal Karen Ziegler said.  “Our students look to these athletes not only as positive role models, but also as inspirational academic leaders. We want to send the message to our students that college is an opportunity for everyone.”

The idea was conceptualized by MSUB head men’s basketball coach George Pfeifer as a way to connect the athletic department with elementary schools in Billings.

“All of the coaches at MSUB are excited to work with our community youth,” Pfeifer said.  “As coaches, we embrace the role of being mentors when it comes to our respective sports.  I am excited, as I know it will be an enjoyable and fun day for everyone involved.”