MSU softball players assist in building of home

August 18, 2012

MSU softball players Rachel Zdeb, left, and Sam Lenahan have tools in hand as they assist in the construction of a home at 276 Steadman Lane as part of the Habitat for Humanity project. (Photo by Kyle Niblett, For Starkville Daily News)

Sam Lenahan knows what hard work means as a member of the Mississippi State softball team.

In her transition from catcher to third base, it's nothing new for Lenahan to face the task at hand with the Lady Bulldogs.

Lenahan goes about her business the same way off the field.
On Thursday, Lenahan and three of her teammates took time out of their pre-school schedule assisting in the construction of a new home at 276 Steadman Lane as part of the Habitat for Humanity project.

"I feel very fortunate to be able to come out here, give back to my community and be able to help out a family that's in need," Lenahan said. "I'm looking forward to being able to come back on the weekends that we have off to see the progress being made, meet the family that's going to be living here let them know we're all here for them and help them out whenever they need it."

Lenahan, Chrissie Rovtar, Jessica Cooley and Rachel Zdeb helped for four hours with the 50th Habitat for Humanity home that will belong to Daphne Walton and her five children (Ian, Caleb, Hanna, Seth and Chloe).

Lenahan said it's important for the team to get out into the community.

"We have fans that come out and support us so this is one way to give back to the fans we have," Lenahan said.

Players take on the attitude of their coach and Rovtar said helping was the idea of MSU softball coach Van Stuedeman.

"She cares about the community as does the whole softball team," Rovtar said. "Not only are we serving our state, but we are also serving our community. We just want to help the community as much as we can and get great fans out there for our games."

For Zdeb, it's an opportunity to reunite with teammates in an off-campus setting prior to school starting on Monday.

The Lady Bulldogs, whether they are from near or far, have embraced the community.

"Mississippi State and Starkville is a big family," Zdeb said. "Any way we can help out around here, we love to."