Gymnastics Hosts Annual RISE Holiday Party
12/8/2007 12:00:00 AM | Gymnastics
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Laughter and smiles filled the Frances Smith Gymnastics Practice Facility as the Alabama Gymnastics team hosted its annual Christmas party for the children from the Stallings RISE Center.
"Every year, this is one of the most joyful days of the season," Patterson said. "The children have such a good time and their smiles are so big, you can’t help but be touched by their happiness. There is no doubt that our ladies get as much out of this experience as the children. It is a perfect way to get the holiday season underway."
Head Coach Sarah Patterson and the Crimson Tide have joined with RISE for a Christmas party for more than a dozen years and have hosted the party in their practice facility since it opened in 1996. As always, the gymnasts and RISE students were joined by a special guest when Santa Claus made an appearance.
The RISE Program, which was founded in 1974, serves children ages birth to six years in the West Alabama area who have known or suspected disabilities. Children without disabilities are enrolled in the program as well.
The gymnasts start exams next week to finish off the fall semester. Alabama's season starts Friday, Jan. 11 at home against Illinois. Season tickets can be purchased online at RollTide.com and through the ticket office (205.348.2262).
