In an effort to attract the younger fans of Lions Athletics, the athletic department is continuing this year with the Junior Lion Club.
According to Danny Kambel, sports information director, it is a way for kids to be connected to the athletic program, and is open to all children under 13.
The program was created last year by Carlton Cooper, director of the athletics department, who is acting as the administrator of the program until he is able to find the right person for the job.
“Most athletic programs have a kids program, so I brought one over here to get young kids involved,” Cooper said.
The program is currently membership driven. Last year there were not enough participants to do many activities, but the children that were involved received a Junior Lion T-shirt, birthday cards signed by some of the athletes and a holiday gift.
The members are also invited to certain athletic events where some might get the chance to either be an honorary coach or ball kid.
“Right now we have eight kids. They get to attend different athletic events of the year. As the program grows, we will offer more. It’s new so it’s going to take time,” Cooper said.
The requirements to become a member are that one must be 13 or younger and pay a $10 membership fee. It is an annual membership, so in order to remain in the program, it is required to re-register every year.
When a child signs up to become a member of the club, there is a small information slip that has to be filled out.
This page can be found on the athletic website: www.lionathletics.com. Athletes participating in the Junior Lion Club are the women’s soccer team, volleyball team, men’s basketball team and the football team.