VALDOSTA –  In a joint effort with the Boys and Girls Club of Valdosta, the Valdosta State Blazer basketball team introduced their involvement in a newly established program before Monday night’s game, where each men’s basketball player will serve as a formal mentor of a young man in the Valdosta community.

These young men will spend time with their respective mentor, participating in organized activities such as community service, practice sessions, and official Blazer basketball games. The goal is for the VSU student-athletes to serve as a positive influence in the lives of their young mentees. Each mentor and mentee were introduced together prior to Monday night’s win over Southeastern at The Complex.

“We have to realize that our basketball team is an intricate part of the Valdosta Community. We serve as role models and I thought it was time for us to expand that role in the community. That is why we have started our mentoring program with the Boys and Girls club of Valdosta,” said Head Coach Mike Helfer. “This program will give us the opportunity to impact and make a difference in young lives. We will work hard at this, and I know that our players are excited about working with each young man in the program. This is a special opportunity for us.”

Coach Helfer and the Blazers are looking forward to establishing stronger ties to the community through this initiative and are hoping to continue the program with the Boys and Girls Club in the years to come.