Jan. 10, 2013

BRONX, N.Y. - The calendar may say that Christmas is over, but the Fordham women's basketball team carried on the generous spirit of the Holiday Season on Thursday, handing out gifts to children at the Union Community Health Center in the Bronx.

Coach Gaitley and the Rams were greeted by dozens of eager children upon their arrival to the center on the corner of 188th Street and Valentine Avenue.

"It's always nice to give back to our community," said junior Tri-Captain Abigail Corning. "We sometimes take things for granted, like gifts at the holidays, and it's humbling to see that not everyone is that fortunate. We're happy to impact others and put smiles on their faces."

Coach Gaitley shared a similar sentiment to her tri-captain.

"Our players take great pride in giving back to the community," said Gaitley. "Having the opportunity to share gifts with the young children at Union Community Health Center gives them a chance to not only spread happiness, but appreciate all their own blessings.

The Rams have an outstanding relationship with local organizations like Union Community Health Center. Fordham teams have volunteered their time and talent at the center several times, and for the senior class this marks the third time in four years that they have traveled to this establishment during the holidays.

"We're so pleased to have the Fordham University women's basketball team visit Union Community Health Center," said Douglas L. York, Chief Executive Officer of UCHC. "Union is grateful to have such a dedicated and active community partner in Fordham University. The basketball team not only has team spirit, but also a commitment to children in our area of the Bronx."

The Fordham women's team kicks off its A-10 season this coming Sunday when they take on the 49ers of Charlotte down in North Carolina.