It’s not uncommon to find Beloit College’s student-athletes volunteering in the City of Beloit. The football team embodies this spirit of community service, starting from the recruitment process. “We let them know that this is important to us,” explains Head Coach Kyle Langhoff, inviting players to be a part of Beloit’s community throughout their years on campus.

“My goal is that they are part of something bigger than themselves, and I want our guys to know that when they leave here they can be part of another community in the next place they live.”

Whether it’s reading, making welcome tunnels at morning drop-off, or eating lunch with the children, the players serve as role models for the students at Merrill Elementary and Lincoln Academy. Quarterback Jared Torres ’27 participated in foam experiments in a science class. “It was funny, because some of the kids were better at the experiment than me!” he said. “They were really talented.”

Volunteering also has a positive effect on players off the field. The time in the classroom is good for team bonding, since some of the players may not see each other outside of team activities. “We get so caught up in practice and film study,” Torres says. “These visits are a break from those responsibilities because we focus on making the visit enjoyable for the kids.” Players like Torres, an education and youth studies major, also benefit from hands-on experiences related to their fields of study.

The team plans to have a special home game next season at Strong Stadium, where children can participate in pregame activities and have a chance to connect with the players. Torres and Coach Langhoff both agree that community service makes the team better as a whole, and the players always go home with smiles on their faces.