University of Oregon Student Athletes Give Back

When it comes to fields and facilities, it’s hard not to think that the University of Oregon is ahead of the curve. After the unveiling of their estimated $68 million football facilities, the Ducks appear to have all the tools to build a successful program (and then some). Still, the summer hasn’t been all about Ferrari seats or flat screens for the yellow and green. Last month, a group of 20 University of Oregon student athletes traveled to Casa Blanca, Peru to give back to the sporting community.

In their second annual partnership with Courts for Kids, the Ducks travelled 4,800 miles south to build a multi-purpose athletic court for Casa Blanca’s youth. The 20 student athletes represented a variety of varsity sports including women’s basketball, soccer and football. Redshirt sophomore Kendall Brooke of the women’s soccer team was among the group and thrived during the opportunity to play a crucial role in the development of future athletes.

“Sports bring people together in so many ways all around the world, and it was an incredible feeling to be able to provide a safe place for the kids of Casa Blanca to play and for the community to come together,” Brooke said.

The project included four days of intensive labor, shoveling gravel and laying concrete. While having the strength of Division I athletes certainly helped the process along, the Ducks were further challenged by adjusting to Peruvian culture.

“Going from the United States where everything you could possibly need is so accessible, to transitioning to the life of a third world country is a pretty big shock,” Brooke said. “They do not need material items to make them happy in life, which was so refreshing to see.”

Brooke’s most memorable moments included exploring the town of Casa Blanca and seeing first-hand the dirt floors and clay walls of local homes. It’s not only a stark contrast to the United States but also collegiate athletics, where sports and teams across the country are in a constant race to provide not only the fastest and strongest athletes but also state of the art facilities. In her own reflection, Brooke recalls how excited the children of Casa Blanca were just to receive new balls. It’s certainly a strong reminder for athletes to stay humble and grateful but also incentive to continue giving back.

“It was an honor to represent the University of Oregon and our country in such a positive way during our stay in Peru,” Brooke said. “Athletes are looked up to as role models for many people, so it is extremely important for them to project a positive image of themselves for others to follow.  Reaching out and volunteering in the community when you can is a great way to help other people and hopefully inspire others to do the same.”

While a single court isn’t much compared to the vastness of the University of Oregon’s athletic programs, it’s certainly a start. After all, at one time it all started with a single field. More importantly, as Brooke said, sports bring people together whether it’s a team of 20 student-athlete volunteers or the community that worked to erect a single court. The trip stands as a humbling reminder that sports aren’t about facilities or even talent but instead a practice in unity.