This past Sunday, the River Falls Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) sponsored the annual Kids' Day Out. Throughout the duration of the event there were around 15-20 student-athletes, at least one from nearly every UWRF sports team, chaperoning the event.

Unfortunately only four kids showed up; the student-athletes were hoping for more, but everyone still had fun. SAAC president, John Bullis (Frisco, TX, Texas, NAHL), was looking on the bright side when he mentioned, “Perhaps families wanted to just be at home for the Packers' game.” Ashley Goettl (North Mankato, MN, West), UWRF softball player mentioned, “It's okay that we didn't have a huge turnout because the athletes that were there were able to focus a lot of time on each individual kid.” One of the most popular activities of the day was playing big base dodgeball, but the kids also enjoyed eating popcorn and drinking gatorade.

"Our boys had an absolute blast," said River Falls resident Jeff Johnson. "The student-athletes treated them all very well, and it was so very nice of them to take time on a Sunday to do this for them. Thanks to the athletic department for making this happen – you can be very proud of your student-athletes!"

Each UWRF sports team brought prizes related to Falcon athletics to raffle off. They made sure to bring enough so each child would leave with at least one prize. Crystal Lanning, UWRF Assistant Athletic Director said, “We did not have the best turnout. But, those that did attend had a fun time and went home with some great prizes.”

Bullis said, “Families should keep in mind that SAAC sponsors this event every year close to the holiday season so parents and guardians can go shopping and run their errands.” The student-athletes try to reach out to the community in several ways because the community has been so supportive, and they want to be supportive right back. Bullis added, “Next year, SAAC would like to see more kids at this event and the student-athletes are already planning on going to elementary schools to promote the event more.”