In a heartwarming display of community engagement, players from the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) men’s basketball team have teamed up with the Roanoke Minnick School for a unique outreach program aimed at fostering youth development and supporting students with special needs.
The initiative, which kicked off this month, aims to build stronger connections between VCU athletes and the Roanoke Minnick School community, an institution known for its work with students who have learning disabilities, autism, and other developmental challenges. Through this partnership, VCU basketball players will provide mentorship, participate in physical education activities, and help promote inclusivity and teamwork.
The collaboration between VCU’s athletic department and Roanoke Minnick School is designed to provide students with positive role models and a chance to interact with college athletes in an encouraging and supportive environment. “It’s important for us as athletes to give back to the community that supports us,” said senior guard *Jalen DeLoach*. “Not only are we teaching these kids basketball skills, but we’re also helping to build their confidence and sense of belonging.”
Throughout the semester, players will visit the school on a weekly basis to participate in activities ranging from basketball drills to games focused on teamwork and cooperation. These visits are meant to both challenge and inspire the students, allowing them to interact with the players in fun, low-pressure settings.
For the Roanoke Minnick students, the experience provides an invaluable opportunity to engage in physical activities they might not have the chance to otherwise, while also gaining insight into the hard work and dedication that comes with being a college athlete. Many of the students at the school have expressed excitement about meeting the players and forming connections that can help boost their self-esteem.
The partnership goes beyond just sports. VCU’s athletes are also taking part in social activities such as reading to students, leading group discussions, and hosting motivational talks to encourage perseverance and self-belief. This well-rounded approach ensures that the athletes’ involvement is not limited to physical activity but also touches on the emotional and social development of the children.
“Having the VCU players involved in the school is an incredible opportunity for our students,” said *Lori Matthews*, the principal of Roanoke Minnick School. “These students are inspired by their role models, and it’s amazing to see how quickly they connect. The players bring a sense of excitement and joy to the classroom, and it’s a wonderful chance for them to practice social skills and feel a sense of accomplishment.”
This partnership is just the beginning of what both VCU and Roanoke Minnick hope will be a long-term collaboration aimed at making a difference in the lives of young people. Both institutions are committed to strengthening ties and finding ways to continue supporting each other through future community-driven programs.
“We’re looking at this as more than just a one-time event,” said *Mike Rhoades*, head coach of VCU men’s basketball. “We want to continue this relationship and find more ways to help students build their self-confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills—things that will serve them well both on and off the court.”
The VCU basketball team’s involvement with Roanoke Minnick School represents a growing trend of collegiate athletes using their platform to positively impact their local communities. Whether it’s through mentorship programs, charity events, or educational partnerships, these athletes are proving that their influence extends far beyond the basketball court.
As the semester continues, VCU basketball players are looking forward to growing the partnership and seeing firsthand the positive changes they are helping to foster within the Roanoke Minnick community.
This collaboration is a testament to the power of sports in shaping lives and strengthening community bonds. With ongoing support from VCU basketball players, the Roanoke Minnick School’s students are sure to benefit not only from the physical activities but from the lasting friendships and mentorship that will continue to inspire them for years to come.
