Everyone can agree that sports can bring people together. Whether it be a beautiful touchdown with seconds to go in the game, or a chilling buzzer-beater shot to win the championship, we can all relate to the feeling of rising above. But we can’t all relate to the feeling of losing what matters to you most; your home, your city…everything.
We have all heard about the devastation of Hurricane Harvey in Texas and how it left a path of destruction throughout Houston and the southeastern part of of the state. However, it’s times like these when people can show their true colors and come together as one.
The athletic community throughout the U.S. has been nothing short of supportive. Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt has already raised more than $15 million to help Harvey victims. But professional athletes with big salaries aren’t the only ones weighing in on the fight.
College football teams are stepping up to the plate, as well. According to an article by CBS Sports, Ohio State and Indiana University wore “Houston Strong” decals on their helmets for a recent game. The Buckeyes also donated $10,000 to the Red Cross to help with the recovery. The hashtag #HoustonStrong was even created to show the community that they are not in this alone.
Kevin Sampson, the head coach of the University of Houston men’s basketball team, sent out a tweet after the devastation, asking for 20 t-shirts from basketball teams from every level across the country. The response was like no other. The majority of schools took to their social media pages to show what they were donating and to also show their compassion for the city.
Depaul University sent shirts and basketball shoes to Houston, tweeting “A few packages went out to Houston this morning. #HoustonStrong #ForTheCity”.
According to SBNation.com, Tulsa football offensive line coach, Mike Bloesch, who is from Houston, really got involved. He went through every closet in his house with his wife and within 15 minutes, they both filled two 55 gallon trash bags with an assortment of clothing. Bloesch also tweeted, “Please Help @TulsaFootball and donate to those impacted by Hurricane Harvey.”
Not only did basketball teams join in on the support, but the Washington State baseball team found it in their hearts to donate as well. The team donated baseball t-shirts and running shoes.
The Kansas State football team collected and donated supplies at its season opener. By doing this, it allowed the rest of the school and the community to get involved.
The University of Maine’s conference, America East, donated America East T-shirts to help show their support. They tweeted, “The America East is happy to help those impacted by Hurricane Harvey. A package is coming your way @CoachSampsonUH #HoustonStrong”.
The Binghamton women’s basketball team also donated items to those affected.
As for UMaine athletics, Bob Walsh, the head coach of the men’s basketball program, sent out a tweet responding to the idea of organizations sending t-shirts to those in need; “Great idea. We can all find a way to help. @BlackBearMBB shirts on the way. Stay tough, Houston.”
It’s truly remarkable the amount of giving that this has been going on during these past few weeks. Teams from all different conferences from across the United States all took the time out of their busy practice and game schedules to show the true meaning of giving. It’s true what they say, sports really do bring people together.
