WILMINGTON, N.C. ? The UNCW athletic department has announced the launch of Seahawks Tomorrow, a community outreach program designed to give the university's student-athletes the opportunity to encourage elementary and middle school children to stay in school, achieve academic success and stay physically active.

“We are thrilled to be in a position to give back to a community that has been generous to us in so many ways, UNCW Director of Athletics Kelly Mehrtens said. Collaborative efforts such as this give our student-athletes leadership experience and empowers them to directly impact the community.”

Through Seahawks Tomorrow, UNCW student-athletes hope to motivate area youngsters by using the life lessons inherent in sports: the value of respect, teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership and positive attitude. The program will also provide student-athletes an opportunity to be positive role models for children and demonstrate how communities working together can make a difference.

Seahawks Tomorrow also supports UNCW's partnership with the NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills Program. CHAMPS, which stands for Challenging Athletic Minds for Personal Success, is designed to ensure personal growth of the student-athlete within the five commitment areas of academic excellence, athletic excellence, personal development, career development and community service.

The UNCW women's basketball team recently began its participation in the program, spending time tutoring local students at Holly Tree Elementary during the fall semester. Coach Ann Hancock's squad also participated in an autographed session with the students and will serve as hosts for a full day of activities centered around UNCW's contest against East Carolina on Thursday, Dec. 20.

“The entire staff at Holly Tree Elementary is excited about the new program at UNCW entitled Seahawks Tomorrow,” Principal Laurie Holiday said. “We are diligently stressing more physical activity and healthier lifestyles to our students and this program goes hand in hand with our curriculum. We are excited that UNCW is willing to share their student-athletes as role models for our elementary children.”