Written By: Victoria Williamson ~ Assistant Sports Editor
Lynchburg Men’s Lacrosse celebration. Photographed by Caroline Gerke
As the school year begins to come to a close, Lynchburg’s student athletes joined together to participate in DIII week last week. Each day featured activities to get the students involved in sports and community service on and off-campus.
Conner Harlacher, the junior defender on Lynchburg men’s lacrosse, participated in multiple events throughout the week, such as the kickoff event on Shellenberger Field, the grounds crew service mulching, and the One Love Foundation lacrosse game. His time spent raising awareness and lending a helping hand was impactful to not only him, but those around him as well.
“It feels great. Our student body is a great resource for community service. When we come together, we can accomplish work efficiently and in a fun manner,” said Harlacher.
Also attending the One Love lacrosse game in support of DIII week, sophomore libero Abbey Barlow on the Lynchburg women’s volleyball team sees value in connecting with the community in and around the University of Lynchburg and giving back to them.
“It is a great opportunity to help the community that we surround ourselves with, by the teachers at Lynchburg, along with the school itself, coaches and teammates. Being able to see all the different sports can come together to help this school’s legacy succeed and strive for that one nation motto is a really great opportunity that I’m proud to be a part of,” she said.
With DIII week focusing on service and sports, some student-athletes were able to volunteer off-campus for the week.
Benton Jones, sophomore infielder on Lynchburg baseball, was able to serve the community with his team during DIII week.
“I worked at the LAYSi Clinic with the baseball coaching staff and some players. It feels great to give back to the community during DIII week because they are an integral part of our success,” said Jones.
While DIII week’s goal is to enable Lynchburg sports teams to gain recognition while also giving back to the community, this goal should be continued once the week ends, and flow into the future culture of Lynchburg sports.
For more information on game schedules and updates, visit: Lynchburg Sports.
