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TACOMA, Wash. — The Pacific Lutheran University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) lived out Lute core values of unity and service on Saturday, hosting a Halloween "trunk or treat" event inside Olson Gymnasium for members of the Parkland community.

"We're delighted with how the event turned out. Having the community coming together and connecting with all the student-athletes and having fun, was the highlight for us," said men's soccer student-athlete and SAAC Co-President Hiro Nagahama-Sequera.

"The student-athletes who set time aside to help out showed that SAAC's unity and shared goal of community connection and engagement is a driving force behind what we've done and what we've planned for the rest of the 2025-26 academic year."

Over 100 families from the local community participated in the fun event. SAAC representatives from each sport hosted interactive sports-themed booths with fun challenges ranging from kicking a soccer ball into a goal, shooting a basketball, and a mini golf putting challenge. SAAC reps, some donning their own Halloween costumes, gave out candy and interacted with the kids in addition to running the interactive stations. 

"It was incredible to see so many families from the Parkland community come out and connect with our student-athletes," said women's soccer student-athlete and SAAC Co-President Carmen Kiewert.

"Our goal was to create a space where kids could have fun, try new sports, and experience the spirit of PLU Athletics and I think we truly achieved that together. This event also highlighted what PLU SAAC is all about: using our platform as student-athletes to build meaningful connections within our community beyond the field or court. Seeing nearly 100 families join us for an afternoon of Halloween fun was a great reminder of the impact we can make when we come together!"