On March 25, it was the seventh annual PAL (Piedmont Athletic Lions) Games. The games were held at the Johnny Mize Athletic Center, and this event was a special moment between Piedmont University students and students from local elementary schools with special needs.
This event brought joy to the kids and even the Piedmont students. The kids got paired up with a Piedmont student and spent the whole day playing at different sports stations and having fun overall.
“I liked the fact that I got to hang out with these little kids and make their day,” said junior swimmer Erick Fortner. “Getting to help them and put a smile on their face was truly a joy.”
The PAL games allowed student participants to support local schools while pursuing their academic and athletic goals.
“The PAL games are always very important to me because my cousin has autism, and he’s so far away from me,” said graduate student basketball player Ashley Scott. “So I enjoy spending time with these kids and getting to connect with them one-on-one. It is very special, I think, because people get to understand more.”
Many Piedmont students were left after the PAL games, wanting to have more fun with the kids. Everywhere you looked, there were big, bright smiles on the faces of children and Piedmont volunteers. So many students enjoyed their time with the kids, saying wonderful things about their time with them.
“I enjoy seeing them so happy to just simply run around the gym all day with us,” said Scott. “It’s very close to my heart, and I think we should have more people to join! They’re always so much fun!”
This event touched the hearts of many of the students, teachers, and parents of the kids who participated. Many kids were able to create long-lasting memories with everyone. The PAL Games always seem to be a big hit for Piedmont and the local elementary schools, so there is anticipation that next year will be better than ever!
“I’ll definitely be coming back for next year’s PAL games and would heavily recommend others to join in,” said Sophomore basketball player Zach Oechsle. “It’s a great opportunity to give back to the community and give the kids a really fun memory.”
