Milford Students at ECSU Volunteer at Hartford Marathon

The cross-country team at Eastern Connecticut State University volunteered at the Hartford Marathon on Oct. 10, assisting athletes with disabilities through the races. Nine members of the team served as guide runners for blind athletes or those in wheelchairs; 12 members served as course marshals in the 5K, the race in which the majority of athletes with disabilities participated.

Among the volunteers was Megan McCaskill '18, a resident of Milford who majors in health sciences. McCaskill served as a course marshal.

Among the volunteers was Rachel Mezzoni '17, a resident of Milford who majors in physical education. Mezzoni served as a guide runner.

"I love to do meaningful community service projects with the team, and if we can give back to the sport we love, then that's even better!" said Kathy Manizza, head coach of the track and field/cross country teams.

Earlier this semester, the team volunteered at another marathon, running a water stop. In November they will help out at the "Little Manchester Road Race," a children's version of the Thanksgiving Day race that is attended by some 800 children. "The athletes on the team love doing these projects," said Manizza. "They bring us closer together as a team."

When she asked students to help out so early on a Saturday morning -- 6 a.m. for the Hartford Marathon -- Manizza was surprised to see such volunteerism. "The entire team raised their hand," she said. "They have a new appreciation for the fact that athletics, in particular running, is for everyone and it doesn't necessarily matter how fast you are."

Eastern Connecticut State University is the state of Connecticut's public liberal arts university, serving more than 5,300 students annually at its Willimantic campus and satellite locations.