Fan support is important for Ellsworth Community College athletics. But more important for the Panther softball team is for them to show their support for the community that cheers them on.

ECC Head Softball Coach Kayla Farnsworth is in her first year at ECC. She has made it known to all that she believes in her student-athletes going out and making a difference in the lives of those around them. "I asked the girls to get into small groups and pitch a community service idea that they are passionate about supporting. They present their ideas to the team via PowerPoint presentations."

In November, Panther softball players Raechel Campbell, Bradi Yost, Kayla Brady and Maggie Ireland selected the Heritage Care Center in Iowa Falls to be their project site. Players and HCC residents worked on creating all-natural air fresheners made from oranges and cloves.

"The girls were passionate about this project and felt grateful to learn from the Heritage residents. This experience pulled the best out of our players, and I appreciate how welcoming and kind Heritage residents and staff were to us. This experience helped us practice one of our core beliefs, 'victory with integrity,'" commented Coach Farnsworth.