Texas Tech University Athletics
Lady Raiders Spread Smiles During Holidays
December 23, 2011 | Women's Basketball
Dec. 23, 2011
When the Texas Tech women's basketball team had the chance to take some time off from basketball and school it wasn't exactly what you would call vacation time.
There was still plenty of work for the team to do on the court each day in preparing for their next opponent, Western Kentucky, and staying in shape over the holiday break.
But what the student-athletes didn't know is that they were getting the chance to be fans at the same time - just like those who visit United Spirit Arena to watch them play each game during the season.
These young players have become fans of the Lubbock community - the same group that cheers the Lady Raiders on each game day for more than 30 years.
"It's just amazing to see the kind of support we are always getting," Tech head coach Kristy Curry said. "We get the exciting job of playing basketball each time we go out for a fantastic fan base - Lady Raider Nation. But it's also important to remember that we can do more than just play basketball and go to school."
The Lady Raiders have a long tradition of giving back to Lubbock over the years when it comes to community service. The program has been heavily involved in several initiatives, from raising money for the WBCA Kay Yow Cancer Fund to visiting children's hospitals during the holidays.
The team even hosted a "Toys for Tots" night at the USA when they took on UT-Arlington, allowing fans the chance to gain admission to the game by donating a gift. The game helped bring in nearly 300 gifts to be donated.
Tech most recently had the opportunity to not only ring bells for the Salvation Army but also help hand out toys to families needing the chance to help give friends, family and most importantly their kids a happy holiday. And they didn't want to stop with just handing out the donated gifts from all over the community - they also handed out more than 100 tickets so that even more fans have the chance to come see the 15th-ranked team in the nation in action this year.
"It really isn't about people recognizing us for who we are," junior guard Mary Bokenkamp said. "We love the chance to get to do this each year and when you hand someone a toy that you know they will get the chance to give to a loved one, you just can't help but feel like a little kid again. That's better than any win or basket we will ever make."
Major Nettie Morton with the Salvation Army of Lubbock may have said it best when it comes to describing what these girls and other student-athletes mean for organizations who need the volunteers to drive the numerous campaigns during the holidays.
"The Lady Raiders are an important part of Lubbock," she said. "Texas Tech is what makes Lubbock what it is. To have the Lady Raiders here helping out each year to volunteer and help hand out toys to everyone, you just cannot compare or put a price on something like that."
