Dec. 13, 2006

EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State track and field and cross country programs recently joined forces with the American Red Cross to raise money by wrapping presents and accepting donations to benefit victims of tragic circumstances in an event held at the Meridian Mall in Okemos, Dec. 8-10. Spartan student-athletes spent over 25 hours wrapping presents, greeting customers and collecting donations.

"This was a great opportunity for our team to get involved with the local community," assistant track and field coach Chris Bostwick said. "Having such a large team of over 100 student-athletes, we were able to come in contact with hundreds of people throughout the course of the weekend. It was a privilege to interact with so many members of our community, and we are very thankful for the opportunity."

The cross country and track and field programs also participated in the Teams For Toys program along with 22 other MSU varsity athletic teams. Each respective team raised money for an underprivileged family in the Lansing area, went out in the community and bought gifts, then came together at the Clara Bell Smith Academic Center on Sunday, Dec. 10 to wrap presents and then deliver them to the families. The teams collected over $4,000 for the cause.