Finish Strong and SelecTRI team up to build both athleticism and character

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - In The Woodlands it is not unusual for kids to begin playing sports as early as grade school, sometimes even sooner. What is unusual is a program that trains kids to have both excellent athleticism, and excellent character. Together Finish Strong Coaching, and SelecTRI have teamed up to teach young athletes that there are more important things than just swim, bike and run.

This past Friday the dynamic duo of Finish Strong and SelecTRI ran a food drive to benefit Interfaith Food Pantry. They even added a fun twist to the event, calling it “Christmas in July.”

When the kids came to track practice they didn’t just bring sneakers and water bottles with them, they brought meals for families in need.

“We are very fortunate here in The Woodlands, and we wanted to express to the kids that giving back is always a good thing to do,” said Head Coach Dana Lyons.

In the spirit of “Christmas in July,” the young athletes also ran practice in Santa hats and then delivered the donations to Interfaith, after cooling down with popsicles of course.

“I want to make this a fun event for the kids, because it is summer and it should be fun,” Admin. Deb Lyons said. “They are doing hard work and they are doing running, but it is always good to have something to look forward to.”

As hoped the coaches excitement surrounding the event rubbed off on the kids as well.

“It is an amazing thing to get to be a part of, to get to bless others is a great feeling,” sixth grade athlete Joshua Bennett said.

Joshua wasn’t the only student that was excited to be giving back to the community.

“I feel blessed because God has given me so much, and I want to give some back,” said student athlete Layla Faysal. “This food drive shows that even if you are little you can make a difference. I am only twelve and even I still can make a difference.”

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