When the Scarlet Knights aren’t busy scoring touchdowns or sinking three-pointers, they’re making a splash in their communities. Rutgers Athletics isn’t just about top-tier competition; it’s also about making a meaningful impact beyond the field. Dive into how Rutgers’ athletes are flexing their muscles for a great cause and how they balance their game-day grit with giving back.
From Field to Community: Rutgers' Winning Play
At Rutgers, the game plan includes more than just practice and play—it’s about service too. The Scarlet Knights For Life program is the MVP of this effort, turning athletic prowess into community good. This program isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s integral, making sure that every student-athlete gets a chance to give back and grow from the experience.
“The Scarlet Knights For Life program is more than just a title; it’s a call to action,” says Michelle Wilson, Executive Director of Elijah’s Promise. “It’s about our athletes rolling up their sleeves and diving into community work with enthusiasm.”
Game-Changing Community Projects
Rutgers athletes are known for their moves on the field, but their community service projects are equally impressive. Take the annual All-Athlete Welcome Back BBQ. On Labor Day, more than 700 student-athletes converge to pack 3,000+ snack packs for Elijah’s Promise. Which is a New Brunswick, non-profit that harnesses the power of food to break the cycle of poverty, alleviate hunger and change lives. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the spirit of giving. These packs make their way to those in need, showing that Rutgers is committed to serving up kindness.
Over the past few summers, the Men’s Soccer and Women’s Basketball teams have worked at America’s Grow A Row, harvesting a remarkable 15,000 pounds of eggplant and 6,700 pounds of corn. This produce helps provide fresh food to those facing food insecurity. Additionally, through the Embrace Kids Foundation’s RU4Kids program, athletes serve as big brothers and sisters to children dealing with serious health challenges. That’s what we call a slam dunk for community impact!
Balancing Acts: Athletics and Outreach
How do the Scarlet Knights juggle intense practice schedules with community service? With a playbook that includes strategic planning and a lot of team spirit. Coaches and staff make sure that community service is part of the game plan, whether the team is in season or off. It’s all about integrating service opportunities into their busy lives.
“Our teams are always looking for ways to give back,” says Samantha Konkowski, a Rutgers Athletics spokesperson. “Balancing athletics and service is challenging, but it’s rewarding and part of our commitment to holistic development.”
Rallying the Troops
Getting student-athletes excited about community service is a key play at Rutgers. Freshmen are introduced to service opportunities during orientation, and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) provides a variety of ways to get involved. Coaches also champion these efforts, ensuring athletes participate in events like Saturdays in Motion and Special Olympics.
The involvement in these projects isn’t just about giving back; it’s also about personal growth. Athletes gain valuable skills, broaden their perspectives, and learn the power of service.
Measuring the Score
Rutgers Athletics keeps track of its community impact with a keen eye. They monitor the number of service hours and the diversity of opportunities available, aiming to up the ante each year. It’s all about increasing engagement and ensuring that every student-athlete has a chance to contribute.
Rutgers Athletics is focused on deepening existing partnerships and exploring new ways to support the community. It’s all part of their mission to ensure that their athletes are not just champions on the field but also off it.
As Rutgers Athletics continues to blend competition with community spirit, the Scarlet Knights are showing that their impact goes far beyond the scoreboard. For more on how these athletes are making a difference, visit www.scarletknights.com/skfl or @scarletknightsforlife on Instagram.
“It’s about our athletes rolling up their sleeves and diving into community work with enthusiasm.” - Michelle Wilson, Executive Director of Elijah’s Promise
“Our teams are always looking for ways to give back, balancing athletics and service is challenging, but it’s rewarding and part of our commitment to holistic development.” -Samantha Konkowski, a Rutgers Athletics spokesperson.