It has been one crazy week, and no we aren't talking about the world of college football – believe it or not there's more to life than just college football! What occurred on Monday at the Boston Marathon is no doubt the story of the week and one of the biggest stories in recent American history. Hundreds, if not thousands of lives we're forever changed that day. But we also know that sports can serve as a way to help heal and on Saturday the UMass football team will attempt to offer that to some who never got the chance to "cross the finish line."
From the press release:
In the wake of the Boston Marathon Bombing, UMass football head coach Charley Molnar, an avid runner himself, is offering those who were competing at the marathon a chance to `Cross The Finish Line' this Saturday afternoon at the Minutemen's Spring Game at McGuirk Alumni Stadium. Those runners will be able to take a lap around the field, cross the finish line which will be set-up at the 50-yard line and will be presented a gift on behalf of the UMass football program.
The event will take place at half-time of the game and will honor those running with their names on the video board as well. Those who would like to participate are asked to register by e-mailing the football program's administrative assistant Joanne Chauvin at jchauvin@admin.umass.edu.
It's not the only thing the team will do on Saturday either, as the team will also wear a commemorative Boston Marathon sticker on the back of each players' helmets to recognize those lost and injured in the bombing, the first responders at the scene and the marathon runners.
It may be a series of small gestures, but they are one's that could help in the healing process for those directly affected by Monday's horrific events.