Bakersfield College Football Players Give Back to the Community for Read Across America Day

Bakersfield, CA - On March 7th, the Bakersfield College Renegade Football team celebrated Dr. Seuss' birthday by participating in Read Across America Week, an initiative aimed at promoting literacy and encouraging young students to develop a love for reading.  This day also, is in conjunction with the partnership BC athletics has with the Les Schwab Reading Program.  New Head Football Coach, Tyler Thompson, along with several of his players, visited local elementary schools to mentor students and foster excitement for reading.

Coach Thompson personally visited Patriot Elementary School, where he read to students and engaged with them about the importance  of reading.  Joining him were football players Chase Furtado, Drew Underwood, Brady Phillips, and Tyler Lewis, who also shared stories and connected with the young learners.

Meanwhile, at Beardsley Elementary, players Matthew Sosa, Noah Ocampo, Anthony Beary, and David Smith took part in the event, reading to students and demonstrating various workout techniques.  The players even held friendly push-up contests, encouraging the students to stay active and healthy.  The students were especially thrilled to interact with the athletes and gain valuable insight from their visits.

"Read Across America Day, along with the Les Schwab Reading Program is a great opportunity for our guys to get out to the community and be mentors to these young students," said Coach Thompson.  "Encouraging reading and literacy so that our kids can become lifelong learners is vital and is all part of our mission at Bakersfield College Renegade Football."

The event was held in celebration of Dr. Seuss' birthday, marking the start of Read Across America Week.  The excitement among the elementary students was palpable as they eagerly participated in the activities and learned from the football players.  The Renegades left a lasting impression, fostering both literacy and a sense of community pride among the students.

Bakersfield College Athletics is committed to empowering students, and events like this are a reflection of their dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders, and student athletes.