JONESBORO, Ark. — Arkansas State University freshmen partnered with Special Olympics Arkansas at the First National Bank Arena recently as part of the university’s annual Freshman Day of Service.
Around 200 athletes and coaches participated in activities including pickleball, cheerleading, bocce, and basketball. The event also featured health education stations aimed at promoting wellness.
Irvin Humphrey, director of sports training and competition for Special Olympics Arkansas, expressed appreciation for the collaboration. “A-State took it and ran with it, put it in conjunction with Freshman Service Day,” Humphrey said.
During the event, freshmen volunteered as honorary coaches and assisted with tasks such as check-in, food preparation, and ensuring smooth rotations between activities.
Sophomore Jalen Foxx, an outfielder for the A-State Red Wolves baseball team, joined his teammates in participating in the service day. “Especially when we have our off time, it’s good to give back when we can,” Foxx said.
The Freshman Day of Service continues to connect students with community-oriented initiatives, fostering engagement and support for local organizations such as Special Olympics Arkansas.