Search
XBC Impact Story: XBC Supports Saints' Safety
-
When asked what the most important aspect of a team is, many may say the players or the coaching staff. Often overlooked, the heart of a successful team is the safe and up-to-date equipment they use.
The Xavier football team received refurbished helmets and shoulder pads to aid in achieving a successful 2020 season, courtesy of funding from the Xavier Booster Club. Refurbishing these vital pieces of equipment is done for each and every player.
“Helmets and shoulder pads have to be up to a certain standard, so they get sent back to the companies that make them in order to establish they are in good condition and are safe for our players,” Head Football Coach Duane Schulte said.
As these helmets and shoulder pads are extremely necessary for player safety, the condition of these items is not taken lightly.
“We always place a huge emphasis on helmets and shoulder pads regarding the safety of the sport because they truly are an important part of the season,” Schulte said. “Safety always comes first.”
In the reconditioning process, helmets are deconstructed and each piece is inspected for cracks and deterioration, ensuring every athlete has a repaired helmet. Meanwhile, shoulder pads are cleaned and defective parts, like t-hooks, buckles, straps, elastic and laces, are replaced or fixed.
The refurbishment of these important items promote player safety and this could not have been assured for the Saints this year without the help from the Xavier Booster Club.
“The Booster Club, not just with the helmet and shoulder pad safety, but with any kind of needs that we have, help finance the costs and really make it possible,” Schulte said.
The new shoulder pads and helmets are not just appreciated by the coaching staff, but also do not go unnoticed by the players.
“These things make a big difference in how we play and it’s really appreciated,” junior starting wide receiver Nick Mautino said. “We want to play to the best of our abilities and our coaches always remind us to be appreciative of what we have because of the Booster Club.”
For more information on sponsoring the Xavier Booster Club as a Family or Friend of Xavier or as a Business, head to the Xavier Booster Club page at XavierSaints.org/XBC.
