ST. LOUIS – The Department of Athletics got an early morning start when several coaches and student-athletes showed up to various local schools to welcome the students back. This heartwarming action was made possible from the joint efforts of the Department of Athletics and the St. Louis Public Schools.

"This was a great start to our school year for all schools that were involved in our Welcome Back Greeting.  This is just the beginning of our partnership with the St. Louis community, and I would personally like to thank the administrators at Adams Elementary, Dewey International Studies and Bryan Hill Elementary for allowing our student-athletes to come and be a part of the start of school year.  Also, thank you to Coach Stewart, Coach Powell, Coach Young, Coach Roberts, and Athletic Director Will Carey for helping and bringing their respective teams to help out," said Michael Cook, Assistant Athletic Director for Community Partnerships and Fan Experience.

The pure joy showing on the students faces made the entire experience so much better. Director of Athletic Marketing & Development Denale Powell stated, "It was a great experience seeing the young scholars faces light up when we were giving high fives and Harris-Stowe State University wristbands."

Head Softball Coach Larry Young reflected, "Being at Adams Elementary really touched my heart today. First day of school can sometimes be a hard day for students on any level of education but today we were able to help ease their fear, concerns, or any worries they might have had today."

"It was an amazing experience going to the schools to welcome the students back. Most first days are hard on the students but being able to ease their minds today was phenomenal," said Head Volleyball Coach Brittany Stewart.

There will be more events coming in the near future.