Eastern Washington University student-athletes from several sports teams will continue to mentor young people this winter at The HUB Sports Center as part of the HUB 360 afterschool program which targets "at-risk" middle school youth.
 
The HUB is a nonprofit, community-based organization in Liberty Lake, Wash., and began its partnership with the EWU Athletic Department last fall. Jim Fitzgerald, Eastern's assistant athletic director for student success, coordinates EWU's involvement in the program with Phil Champlin, the executive director at the HUB.
 
Student-athletes from EWU's various athletics teams adopt a day to come and join the HUB 360 staff and help mentor the middle school students. Eastern's soccer and golf programs are scheduled to go to the HUB on Jan. 16, followed by volleyball on Feb. 12. Women's basketball will provide assistance on April 16 and 17. The EWU track and field, tennis and cross country programs have previously helped.
 
"We appreciate what Phil and his staff are doing to assist students after school," said Eastern athletic director Bill Chaves. "We are excited to do anything that we can do to enhance their program. Our student-athletes will no doubt do a tremendous job in continuing to help mentor these students."
 
During the program, middle school students spend time on homework, participate in a physical activity, and listen to guest speakers share about careers and hobbies. Eastern's student-athletes participate in the physical activity with the students and share some of the skills and practice techniques from their sport. They also share with the students about their academic and athletic endeavors, and help tutor the students with their homework.
 
"We are very excited to partner with Eastern Washington Athletics and introduce our HUB 360 students to these amazing college athletes," said Champlin. "I think it's a great opportunity for our kids to see and hear from these student-athletes about their accomplishments and dreams and what it takes to get there."
 
 

More About the HUB . . .

The HUB Sports Center is a 501c3 nonprofit sports facility.  The HUB opened in 2007 and has operated with a positive cash flow since October 2010.  The over 66,000 sq. ft. of space is used for community events, outreach programs and athletic activities.  Their purpose is to provide events that have a positive impact on youth and the community.  HUB Website: www.hubsportscenter.org. HUB 360 Website: www.hubsportscenter.org/hub360.