HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. -- Normally, coming home to find someone you don't know hanging out and using your stuff would make you upset and annoyed to say the least. But in this case, Hofstra University Athletics asked the strangers in their house, "What else do you need?"
While the members of Team US aren't exactly strangers, they have "crashed" the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex, along with the Swim Center, at Hofstra University for a few days as they prepare for the Invictus Games. But their host, Vice President and Director of Athletics, Jeffery A. Hathaway, is thrilled to have the men and women of Team US on campus.
"We are so proud to be hosting [Team US] here at Hofstra as you get ready to compete at Invictus Games," Hathaway said as he addressed members of the team on the gym floor. "You all are representing our country and we couldn't be happier to help and support you as you train and get ready to, hopefully, bring home gold."
The hospitality extended by Hathaway was reinforced by several Hofstra teams who stopped in to meet and welcome Team US to their home. Several of the Team US athletes spent time talking to the teams about their experiences and the role sports played in their recovery. But after the story telling was over, those teams that could stuck around for a little friendly competition.
Members of the men's and women's basketball teams tried moving around and taking shots from a wheelchair. After some adjustments, and coaching from Team US players, they were able to find their stroke as they got more comfortable in the chair. They also made a point to race each other up and down the court as they talked and shot around with Team US.
The softball and volleyball teams got down and scrimmaged their guests in sitting volleyball. Although they found it wasn't as easy as it may look, they scored a few points and they clearly had fun playing the game.
Team US also had fun meeting their hosts. "I had a good time with the teams and getting a chance to teach them a bit about the differences of wheelchair basketball and how to maneuver the wheelchair," said retired U.S. Army Spc. Anthony Pone. "It's also fun to talk to young people, hear their goals and dreams, and encourage them to accomplish them."
Retired U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Anthony McDaniel has enjoyed his time training at Hofstra. "Being here at Hofstra has been really nice. They've got great facilities and welcomed us with open arms, truly embraced and supported us. We couldn't have asked for a better host," said McDaniel. "The Hofstra teams and coaches coming out to support us, talk to us and play our sports with us, just goes to show what a great community Hofstra has and the type of people they have here in their athletic program."
The Hofstra student-athletes expressed their gratitude for the service of Team US and they wished each other luck as they parted ways, some heading to practice and others to class. Team US, however got right back to work training on the home floor of their new friends for the last time before the real competition begins in Toronto in just three days.
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