MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. | Georgia College & State University student-athletes stepped up during this year's move-in days Aug. 13-14, helping incoming students and their families settle into their residence halls with lots of energy and support to set the tone for the start of the school year.

Athletes from multiple sports assisted with carrying furniture and boxes, directing families around campus, and answering questions from early that morning. All their efforts helped make such a hectic day run more smoothly.

"Year-after-year, for over a decade, (Director of Athletics) Wendell (Staton), his coaches, and their team members have given their full support to our Cat Crew move-in process," said Dr. Larry Christenson, executive director of university housing. "We simply couldn't be as successful as we are without them! Our athletes truly represent the best of Georgia College."

In addition to the physical assistance, the student-athletes took time to engage with the new students and their families about campus life and also balancing school with their outside lives, making the atmosphere more welcoming. 

"It was a great way to welcome all of the new students," said Mia Palumbo, a junior defender on the women's soccer team. "I think it has become a great annual tradition we have started taking part in. We all remember what move-in day was like, so it's always great to make things a little easier for everyone."

These student-athletes' participation highlights their dedication to the Bobcat community beyond just competing. Move-in day is one of many ways they give back and help make the campus a supportive place for all students.

"The best part about helping our future friends and classmates with move-in is building community," said Nour Nazim, a sophomore cross country runner. "Something we push during our athletic team meetings is this saying that states 'building community with the pursuit of excellence.' Well, I carry this to the move-in day, and with every student I help, my goal is to make it a memorable experience and even create a bond that spreads to the halls." 

There were a few coaches out there helping out as well, and they shared the same sentiment while emphasizing the importance of community and a welcoming environment.

"It's always fun to help with a very hectic day for the campus and the incoming families," said Steve Barsby, assistant director of athletics and head tennis coach. "I have definitely enjoyed trying to make the move-in transition a smooth process for our newest Bobcats!"

As the semester and athletics seasons begin, the Bobcats continue to value teamwork and leadership not only in their sports, but around the community too. 

About GCSU Athletics 
Owning the top Academic Success Rate among all public colleges and universities in Division II for four consecutive academic years, the Georgia College Department of Athletics sponsors 11 varsity athletic programs at the NCAA Division II level. GCSU Athletics has won five consecutive Presidents' Awards for Academic Excellence, and are two-time winners of the PBC Commissioner's Cup and four-time winners of the PBC Institution of the Year Sportsmanship Award. As a Division II program, Bobcat Athletics prides itself on balancing the life of the student-athlete, evidenced by the teams' continued appearances in postseason competition as well as high-level academic success and community-service involvement. Bobcat Athletics embodies the mantra of "Graduating Champions for Life." Sign up at @GCSUBobcats on all social media outlets for up-to-the-minute reports or subscribe to the GSCU Athletics e-newsletter to receive the latest news, schedule updates and to interact with GCSU Athletics.