Today, the Anderson Trojans men's basketball program gave back to the Anderson community. With shovels, pitch forks, work gloves and paint rollers in hand, players, managers and coaches took part in the restoration of a small local playground by moving mulch and painting a basketball court. For several of the players this was their first experience using a shovel or a paint brush.
What I was most pleased with was how well our guys worked together to accomplish the task at hand. There was no complaining or whining from anyone. The players didn't just work; they worked hard. They were not worried about getting dirt or paint on their shoes, shorts or shirts. By the time we were done guys were covered in paint. Nice t-shirts, comfortable basketball shorts and nice shoes were ruined. Sophomore Trey Britton was not the slightest bit worried about his black Nike shoes (that probably cost $75 or more) turning green because of the paint. Who knows if he or the other painters will be able to get the green paint off of their gear. All they know is that it was for a great cause.
As college basketball players and coaches, we sometimes forget how lucky we are to be able to play and teach a game we love. It is important to take some time away from the daily grind of being students, players and coaches to give back where and when help is needed. It is unfortunate that we live in a society where people are judged on whether or not they win or lose the game. I can assure you that our program won today. Not because we had more points, but because other young kids and families will benefit from our hard work!!! 
Athletes and coaches are in a great position to give back to those in need. We need to continue to help others who are less fortunate than us. NBA athletes, who sometimes get criticized for making so much money, do a wonderful job of giving back to their local communities. Listed below you will find a good article about
Milwaukee Bucks forward Charlie Villaneuva.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/hispanicheritage2008/news/story?id=3589196
JOB WELL DONE GUYS!!!
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