WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. ? Members of the Monmouth University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (MSAAC) spent their Thursday morning giving back to the local community by handing out presents to students at the Schroth School and Technical Education Center in Ocean Township. The students, along with Santa Claus, spent the morning of December 13 at the nearby school, which is part of the LADACIN Network.

Student-athletes from all of Monmouth University's 19 sports participated in the event, which has become an annual tradition for MSAAC for the past eight years.

“This event is a great way to kick off the Holiday season,” said MSAAC President and senior track and field team member Mike York. “We look forward to coming to the Schroth School each year and it is a great feeling to be able to give back to the students there.”

The student-athletes raised their own money and bought gifts from wish lists provided by 10 of the classrooms at the school. Then they, along with Santa, went from room to room and delivered the gifts to the students.

The LADACIN Network is a non-profit agency that provides education, therapy, social, residential and support services for people with cerebral palsy and other physical disabilities.

The mission of MSAAC is to enhance the total student-athlete experience by providing opportunity, protecting student-athlete welfare and fostering a positive student-athlete image.

Pictured: Members of the Monmouth University women's soccer team and Santa along with a LADACIN Network student.