Jan. 6, 2011

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Bronx, N.Y. - The Fordham University women's basketball team brought a little cheer to some children at St. Barnabas Hospital's Pediatric Clinic and the Union Health Community Center, an affiliate of St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx this holiday season by giving out presents, hats and stuffed animals and spending time with many of the children in the hospital's pediatric ward. The toys were collected as part of the Fordham Rams' annual toy drive. Fordham University and the Rams' basketball team are committed to promoting the Jesuit ideal of homines pro aliis, or being `men and women for others,' and this opportunity to give back to the local community was a privilege for the players. "We are so excited to have the team here," said Patricia Belair, Senior Vice President of the hospital. "I know how busy their lives can be. So it is so nice when the student-athletes can take time out of their day to spread some cheer." "The reach out to the children is a great reflection on the spirit at Fordham University," said Fordham's chairman of the board of trustees John Tognino, who is also a vice board chairman at St. Barnabas. "We are all proud to be Rams!"

Team Captain, Alexandria Zamora said "It's rewarding to bring a little bit of joy to these children during this time of year. Hopefully it will make them feel a little better." Zamora and her teammates traveled over to the hospital together with three bags of wrapped presents, along with several sacks of stuffed animals and Fordham Christmas hats.

For the team, it is important to gain perspective and take their minds off basketball for a little while. "You feel better about yourself seeing how happy children can be," said senior forward Tiffany Stokes. "It's helps you understand how much grace is in your own life." Setting a good example is important to the team and the entire athletic department.

Julio Diaz, Associate Athletic Director for Marketing and Promotions helped the basketball team distribute the toys on behalf of the Athletics Department. The team returned to St. Barnabas for the second time, after doing the same thing during last year's holiday season.

The team returns to the hardwood on Saturday, January 8 as they welcome LaSalle University into the Rose Hill Gymnasium for a 1:00 p.m. game.