University of North Carolina Athletics
Gymnastics Gives Back
November 24, 2010 | Women's Gymnastics
Nov. 24, 2010
Interview by senior gymnast Theresa Diamond
Q: So far this year your team has already participated in 3 outreach programs: Carolina Dreams, BE THE MATCH Bone Marrow Registry and Habitat for Humanity. Why did you choose these specific programs?
Elizabeth Durkac: Carolina Dreams because last year we had a great experience connecting with the kids and getting to know them and their families. It is also really good to know that we make such an impression on the kids because we are student-athletes.
Maura Masatsugu: Participating in BE THE MATCH Bone Marrow Registry had special significance to one of the members of our team and it was great to opportunity to reach out and educate the community. As sophomores, we have never participated in Habitat for Humanity and it's for a really great cause and in the local community.
Q: What does it mean to be able to participate in these programs and make a difference as a team?
Durkac: It is really important for the team as a whole to reach out and volunteer because we feel so privileged as student-athletes the University of North Carolina.
Masatsugu: We really enjoy helping out as much as we can and trying to make a difference in our community.
Q: What has been your favorite community service project so far and why?
Masatsugu: My favorite community service project thus far was the Build a Block project for Habitat for Humanity. I love working with my hands and having the opportunity to build a home for an actual family here in Chapel Hill. Even though it was cold and rainy the day we volunteered we made the most of it, and I still really enjoyed working this project and getting the whole team together.
Durkac: My favorite community project so far was the Carolina Dreams. We were able to interact with children and their families that have had hardships in their lives. Spending time with these families reminded me to be appreciative of everything I have in my life and not take anything for granted.
Q: What's up next for the Carolina Gymnastics team?
Durkac: We are organizing a visit to a local elementary school to tutor and read to kids as well as a play date with kids at the UNC Hospitals.
Team Volunteering With BE THE MATCH Bone Marrow Registry
Players Mentioned
