Sept. 21, 2013
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IOWA CITY, Iowa — The University of Iowa softball team assisted in Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build 5 to construct a home in Iowa City. The home, the fifth in the area associated with the organization, will be constructed completely by women.
“It was a cool experience to give back,” said sophomore Whitney Repole. “It was a lot more challenging than I expected, but it was rewarding when we finally finished everything.”
The home is for a local family and has been named in honor of former University of Iowa women’s athletics director (1973-2000), Dr. Christine Grant. Grant helped draft the implementation guidelines of Title IX, which paved the way for women’s athletics, and has been a long-time advocate of student athletes.
Members of the team met Grant just days following the Habitat for Humanity home build and were humbled by the experience.
“Dr. Grant is a legend as far as women’s athletics is concerned and meeting her was one of those experiences that impacts you,” said Repole. “We chatted with her at a field hockey game and you can tell she has a presence (about her).”
The team began its four-hour building session learning how to safely complete its respective tasks at the job site and went to work from there using everything from power tools to saws. It was a learning experience for all as many had never been involved in the building process.
“The best part was looking around and seeing everyone doing their jobs,” said sophomore Sammi Gyerman. “It was crazy to look around and know we were building a house.
“I have a lot of respect for people who build houses. It was definitely not easy. I was exhausted after the four hours were complete. Working with my teammates was great though, and we had to rely on each other for help.”
The experience was full of meaningful moments, but the most impactful occurred when the family who will eventually live in the home came to visit the job site.
“Some of the family members came to the house, and we got to meet them,” Repole said. “They thanked us, and that was neat to have happen.”
A benefit for Habitat for Humanity, the Hammers and Hardhats Bash, will take place in the Feller Club Room in Carver-Hawkeye Arena on Oct. 11 from 6-9 p.m. (CT). All proceeds will fund the organization’s Women Build 5 project. The event includes food, drink , silent auction and a Mr. and Ms. Habitat competition.
Those interested in attending can purchase a ticket online at https://hhbeventbrite.com or by phone at 319-337-8949.
