Siena women's soccer assistant coach Lauren Mackay was running out of room in the team's storage closet. They had multiple sets of old, worn uniforms, and Mackay figured it was time to free up the space. She didn't want to just throw them out, but she was having a hard time finding a better option.
"I searched a few local places who might take used clothing/sportswear but didn't have any luck," said Mackay. "I searched for organizations who specifically donate/re-purpose athletic gear and equipment. After many phone calls and emails, I received only a few responses – some couldn't help and some were very costly due to shipping long distances."
Undeterred, Mackay kept making calls until she was connected with Game Changers NY. The organization put her in touch with someone at Triumphant Football Academy in Nigeria. Mackay shipped four boxes of gear to Georgia, and the uniforms, presumably, then made it to the children in Nigeria. That was last summer. A full year passed, and Mackay never heard a thing. Then, out of the blue, she received an email this week with this short note and several pictures (including the picture above).
"We the Triumphant Football Academy thank you for your kind gesture and understanding toward our drive. May God bless you all mightily and replenish your efforts in greater heights, Amen!!!"
Triumphant Football Academy coaches
"Donating clothing and recycling unwanted items is something that has always been instilled in me and emphasized as important," said Mackay."I learned growing up that there are many people in the world less fortunate than us and there are ways we can help – as simple as handing down clothes that no longer fit or are not worn.
It took a bit of work and communication to find an organization for the uniforms as well as a small cost to our women's soccer program to pay for shipping. But, the work and cost on our end is worth it to know that we created an opportunity for children with a lack of resources. The smiles on each of the children in the photos show how happy they are to be wearing a complete uniform while they play soccer and that makes me smile. To be able to give that gift to someone across the world that we will likely never meet is priceless."