Toros Student-Athletes Convey Holiday Spirit to Children From Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
CSUDH gives back to community during memorable visit
December 9, 2003

Cal State Dominguez Hills student-athletes, along with Athletics Director Ron Prettyman, recently visited the Harbor-UCLA Medical Center children's wing.

Carson, CA -- Eighteen Cal State Dominguez Hills student-athletes representing all 11 sports made a visit to the Harbor-UCLA Medical Center on December 5, distributing gifts and smiles to the medical center's children this holiday season.

The student-athletes, accompanied by CSUDH Athletics Director Ron Prettyman, CSUDH Assistant Athletics Director Lamel Harris and members of the CSUDH Athletics staff, volunteered for this visit, purchasing holiday presents for the children as a way to give back to a community that has continued to support their University over the years.

Spearheaded by Harris, CSUDH presented approximately 60 toys to nearly 20 children who were able to attend the visit. From ensuring plenty of toys and personnel who attended the event, Harris garnered participation from each Toro sport, which devoted both time and a sense of caring to the children.

"Our athletes rose to the occassion once again," Harris notes, "impressing me with not only their energy and willingness to participate, but the sincerity and attention they gave to the kids and parents alike which was unbelievable."

Additionally, the Toros secured a portion of the toys for the children's community playroom, enabling those children who weren't in attendance the opportunity to share and enjoy in the holiday festivities.

"I could not have been prouder of a group of quality young men and women who gave their personal time and money to bring some excitement and holiday cheer to kids in the hospital," says Athletics Director Ron Prettyman.

"I am grateful to Lamel Harris, Assistant Athletics Director, for his leadership and efforts in making this event one that several children will remember for many years to come, and also appreciate the student-athletes and coaches who gave their own time and money to contribute toys to give these special a memorable Christmas season.

"I know I will remember it, and I think that our student-athletes will, too."

Click on photos for larger size; hit browser return to get back to this page