TACOMA, Wash. - The Pacific University women's basketball team took a break from training for its quickly approaching season, by hosting a bowling tournament with Special Olympics Washington in University Place on October 28.
 
The Lutes had over 16 student-athletes help participate in the event, and impacted over a hundred Special Olympic athletes. Some of the activities that the women's basketball team performed were score-keeping, reporting, and handing out medals to the Special Olympians. 
 
"We've established relationships with the returning Special Olympics athletes, and we love to share in their joy," said Head Coach Jennifer Childress.
 
Being a student athlete at PLU provides many opportunities to get involved in the community and help the surrounding community grow.
 
"My favorite part about the event was seeing how happy it made all of the Special Olympic athletes for us to be there," said first-year Alexandra Gallaher. "A simple high-five meant the world to them. I felt lucky to have the opportunity."
 
The athletic department at PLU prides itself in its willingness and ability to give back to the local community. The PLU coaches and student-athletes spend over 3,000 community service hours per year to help better the surrounding community.
 
The women's basketball team will open up the season with an exhibition game against Saint Martin's University tonight in Lacey, Washington.