Aug. 21, 2007

PHOTOS

MIDLOTHIAN, Va. - Members of the Richmond field hockey team took part in the YMCA's Bright Beginnings program at the Midlothian Target on Tuesday night, helping disadvantaged children do some back-to-school shopping.

YMCA Bright Beginnings is a community outreach program that provides thousands of disadvantaged children the fall clothes and school supplies needed to start the new school year with confidence and pride.

The Spider field hockey players paired up to be shopping buddies with young boys and girls, helping them select back-to-school clothing paid for by the YMCA's Bright Beginnings program. The players then ate with the children and had their pictures taken. When the children boarded the bus to head back to the YMCA they found a backpack of school supplies waiting for them. The Spiders waved goodbye and gave high fives to the youngsters, clearly making a positive impact on the children.

The five-time defending Atlantic 10 Champions open the 2007 season on Saturday at 11 a.m. against Hofstra in the first game of the Spider Classic at Crenshaw Field. The Spiders also play American on Sunday at 2 p.m.