May 14, 2008

Houston, TX - Choosing to be a NCAA Division II student-athlete not only means excelling in the classroom and on the field, it also means giving back to the community and to those who are not as fortunate. As participants in the NCAA Division II Spring National Championship Festival, Adelphi Women's Lacrosse was given the opportunity to do just that - give back to the community through Houston, Texas' chapter of Habitat for Humanity.

On Wednesday, May 14, Panther lacrosse traded in their sticks and goggles for hard hats and hammers, and aided in the NCAA's joint effort with Habitat for Humanity to construct low cost housing for families who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina. For two and a half hours the ladies of the Brown and Gold rose framing, handled nail-guns and "saw-zaws," and helped with the preliminary work of building a future home.

"It was really great that we got involved because it's import that we give back and help those that are in need, especially victims of Hurricane Katrina like we were helping today," Junior Laura Bennett discussed about her day's work. "Also it proved to be a great bonding experience for the team, with many never having the chance to do anything like that. I think it took some of the pressure and anxiety off for the game tomorrow too."

"It was a lot of fun and it was for a good cause," Freshman Marissa Lisi explained about her experience. "This festival has been a great experience and it's good that we're given the chance to give back to families in need."

Habitat for Humanity, Int'l is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry. HFHI seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world, and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action.

Be sure to catch the Panthers when they dawn their sticks again for the semi-final match up against the Pioneers of C.W. Post. First draw is scheduled for 11:30 am Central time, 12:30 pm Eastern Time, and can be view lived by clicking: