You may have heard the loud clanging of a distant bell while walking to class this week, bringing to mind images of holiday cheer and goodwill.

This week, the Grand Valley State University men’s roller hockey club has come together for a fundraiser benefiting the Salvation Army.

“I’ve been really impressed with the team’s efforts,” said GVSU head coach Tim Mastbergen. “It’s the end of the semester, and the guys are trying to balance school, work, and roller hockey, so we weren’t sure it would turn out as well as it has. But they’re getting into it and having fun. They’re doing this with a real positive attitude, and I’m glad they’re doing it.”

Members of the team stood underneath the GVSU Allendale Transformation Link for six hours on Monday ringing bells and asking passing students to help them raise money for less fortunate people during the holidays.

“Attempting to do something good for the community is always a plus,” said senior defender Nick Dow. “I can’t believe how much people actually donate. I’ve seen people giving $5 and $10 bills, which is more than enough, especially for college students. It’s going toward one of the better organizations, because what they do at the Salvation Army is a good cause.”

This fundraiser, which started last year as a group of roommates trying to raise money before it was opened up to the team, demonstrates that the Lakers, whose record currently sits at 8-7 this year, have teamwork and commitment both on and off the court.

The team is appreciative of the support shown by students, and as junior defender Jimmy Kavanaugh said, “every little bit helps.”

“We’re just trying to get as much as we can,” he said. “Our only goal is to try and top last year’s donations, which were about $250.”

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