HARTSVILLE, S.C. – The Coker College softball team is back out in the community, this time in the Pee Dee Region teaming up with Marion Intermediate School for the Reading Buddies Program.

Marion Intermediate School is a Title 1 school made up of third, fourth and fifth graders. The Cobras made the trip to Marion Intermediate on Monday (Mar. 7) to read along with the students of Ms. Alycia Stiles and explain the importance of academics and athletics. Head softball coach Travis McCall believes the experience will be beneficial for both his players and the students of Marion Intermediate.

"It was a great opportunity for our girls to interact with the kids and help them with their reading," said McCall. "You never know the impact you can have on a child's life by simply taking the time to sit and listen to them read a book. It is also good for our girls to see that they are role models and the responsibilities that come with being a student-athlete."

Stiles, who is the older sister of current Coker softball player Corrine Stiles, teaches third grade at Marion Intermediate School and she believes having the Coker softball team could really be an eye-opening experience for her students.

"I believe it is very important for the Coker softball team to come and visit our school," said Stiles. "Since we are a Title 1 school, we do have struggling students and I believe seeing student-athletes come in and show they care will boost their self esteem and their work ethic in the classroom. Seeing that college is a real possibility for them will absolutely have an effect on them in a positive way, making them realize you need both academics and athletics to succeed."

Be sure to support the Cobras when they return to the field on Saturday (Mar. 12) when they travel to Limestone College to take on the Saints in a non-conference doubleheader.

About Title I Schools

Title I, Part A (Title I) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended (ESEA) provides financial assistance to local educational agencies (LEAs) and schools with high numbers or high percentages of children from low-income families to help ensure that all children meet challenging state academic standards.

Story by Aaron Beebe, Coker Assistant Sports Information Director