Mississippi State M-Club members devote time to community

The last seconds tick off the clock as she dribbles toward the basket. Just before the buzzer sounds, she hurls the ball from the top of the key and lifts the team to victory.

This scenario could easily be associated with Jemmye Ann Helms of Mathiston, a senior guard for Mississippi State's women's basketball team. But what might go unnoticed are the accomplishments of Helms and other MSU athletes far from the courts and playing fields.

Through the student M-Club, Helms and other athletes work to promote community involvement.

"It gives the athletes a chance to make a name for themselves in the public outside of their athletic reputation," said president Colby M. Swann of Hartselle, Ala. "It also forms bonds between the students and the community."

Swann, a senior communication/public relations major and a manager for the varsity football team, said the organization averages about 70 members each school year.

The M-Club participates in various community beautification and school spirit projects, but the primary focus is helping children, Swann said.

Each year, approximately 25 to 30 athletes help tutor grade-school children from Emerson, Overstreet, Sudduth, and Ward elementary schools in Starkville.

"We talk to them about their dreams," explains football team linebacker Paul V. Lacoste of Jackson, a senior physical education major. "We listen to their ambitions and encourage them to work to achieve goals."

M-Club members also share strong ties with the Palmer Home for Children in Columbus. In addition to regular visits with the children, the athletes sponsor a spring softball tournament and donate proceeds to the orphanage.