MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois University student-athletes are once again volunteering time in the Macomb and area communities. Western Illinois is continuing the program called ‘Rocky’s Reach’ which was implemented for Leatherneck student-athletes to interact with elementary-age children, participating in such activities as: playing board games, recess activities and mentoring.

Two days out of the week representatives from Western’s sport programs will volunteer time at two local schools. Rocky’s Reach is part of the Athletics Department philosophy for student-athletes to give back to the community and individuals who are in need through a clearly defined program of service, and develop the foundation of a lifelong commitment to volunteerism.

“One of Western's four core values is Social Responsibility, so as an athletics department, we stress to all of our student-athletes the importance of this commitment. We challenge our student athletes every semester to serve as a resource for community development locally, in our region and beyond.  The weekly programs we are conducting at both Lincoln Elementary and MacArthur Early Childhood Center are both evidence of that,” said Director of Athletic Academic Services Lisa Melz-Jennings.

Western Illinois Student-Athlete Schedule

Sept.  20-21:  Men's and Women's Swimming & Diving, Women's Golf

Sept. 27-28:  Baseball

Oct. 4-5:  Softball

Oct. 11-12:  Men's and Women's Basketball, Men's Golf

Oct. 18-19:  Men's and Women's Track & Field

Oct. 25-26:  Men's and Women's Track & Field

Nov. 1-2: Softball

Nov. 8-9:  Women's Soccer, Cheerleading

Nov. 15-16:  Men’s Soccer, Cheerleading

Nov. 29-30:  Volleyball, Men's and Women's Tennis