The girls track team, along with a few freshman students, recently spent several hours putting together more than 200 goody bags for soldiers serving in Iraq. The soldiers are all friends or family members of school staff.

“You (soldiers) are an example of dedication, teamwork, strength, discipline, loyalty, and integrity,” said the students in a note to the soldiers. ”This is why you are a true role model for us to follow not just in athletics but in life.”

Coach GiGi Heermans said she was pleased the students decided to participate in the charitable project instead of trading gifts like in past years.

“We chose to do this versus the gift exchange because it holds a so much greater meaning than just exchanging $10 gifts,” Heermans said. ”While doing this project we were all filled with that incredible feeling that comes from helping someone else. It was so great, especially this close to the holidays.”

The treats they put in the goody bags went to 10 different platoons, including the Navy Seabee construction battalion in Iraq. Heermans and her team were surprised to get a response from them so quickly.

“The Navy Seabees would like to express how much we appreciate your kind gifts of snacks, pictures and letters from back home,” said the religious program specialist for the Seabees.

Several students who devoted their time to making the bags felt it was worthwhile and hope even more students participate next year.

“The time devoted was worth it because what we did made others happy,” said Nicole Longtin, freshmen.