Braves Athletic Council aims to support teams, community

The Braves Athletic Council is attempting to kill two birds with one stone.

The Braves Athletic Council is a new student group on campus which consists of Ottawa University athletes who demonstrate the positive characteristics of a Champion of Character.

Kyle Schreiner, senior and President of the BAC, is trying to bring in more student and community support at home athletic events while giving support out to the community as well.

"Helping the community and school spirit were our main focuses," he said.

The BAC is establishing a student section at all home events where students who are wearing a specific OU shirt can sit and stand to positively cheer on their team.

These students are called "Bravehearts."

As of Tuesday, students can earn a Bravehearts T-shirt by donating one or more needed items to the BAC booth outside the cafeteria during lunch hours.

Some of these items include kitty litter, dog and cat toys and canned dog and cat food. A complete list of items was sent to students' e-mail and can also be found at the BAC booth.

"We were trying to include a community service project and the animal shelter was on my mind," junior Courtney Harris said. "Most everyone likes animals and the commercials on T.V. always touch people emotionally so we know that they care."

Students who are unable to donate can also purchase a T-shirt for eight dollars.

Students will be able to begin wearing their Bravehearts T-shirt to the Men's and Women's Basketball games on Saturday, January 22 at home.

Senior Kylie Covey said she hopes many people participate and get excited about Bravehearts.

"Sure, it may be slow to get it started, but I hope that eventually it can be a big part of our sports programs," she said.

"Student's motivation should be to help out an important organization in the community while being able to be a part of what is hopefully going to become a traditional section of spirited people that support their university's athletic programs," Schreiner said.