On a crisp Saturday morning, instead of sleeping in after a long week of classes, practices and games, a group of Keene State student-athletes can be found at local youth clinics, sports camps and food drives. Their commitment to their communities extends far beyond the field, court or track, demonstrating a dedication to service that matches their passion for competition. These student-athletes are using their platform to make a difference—proving that leadership isn’t just about what happens during the game, but also about the impact made off the field.
For Keene State Athletic Director Marty Testo, community service is not just an extracurricular activity—it’s a fundamental responsibility for student-athletes.
“No ifs, ands or buts about it, it’s vital,” he said. “Being a school that’s located smack dab in the middle of Keene, immersing ourselves in the community—not only with youth but with people who support our athletic program—is just vital.”
Keene State athletes embrace that responsibility wholeheartedly. Many dedicate their time to local organizations, working with groups like the Special Olympics, the Salvation Army and Keene Parks and Recreation. According to Testo, the impact is far-reaching.
“I want to be involved in things that I know are going to make a difference in the community and also send a message to our student-athletes,” Testo said. “When you leave Keene State College, I want you to know that wherever you land, this is important for you to continue.”
That message has resonated with student-athletes like junior women’s soccer player Christina Sanders, who spends weekends at home coaching indoor soccer or “futsal” for youth teams.
“It gives me joy seeing the kids have fun playing a sport I love,” she said.
Sanders said she believes more student-athletes should be involved in service because it shapes them into well-rounded individuals. “Having support from those around you is really meaningful,” she added.
Another Keene State athlete, first-year women’s lacrosse and field hockey player Anna Maccarini, grew up volunteering in her hometown, working with her mom to provide food, clothing and holiday gifts to families in need. While balancing academics and athletics can make finding time for service difficult, she said the effort is worth it.
“Student-athletes can sometimes be stereotyped as only thinking about themselves, but I think it’s important to show that we want to help out just as much as anyone else,” she said. “It just comes down to who puts in the time to help others.”
That commitment has led Keene State Athletics to forge long-term partnerships with various community organizations. Testo highlighted the department’s growing involvement with the Special Olympics, which he said has been a particularly rewarding experience for the athletes.
“We did the Bowl-a-thon at Yankee Lanes, and the kids were awesome,” he recalled. “For us, it’s a season of games, but for these Special Olympic athletes, that one day is everything. Seeing our student-athletes engage with them and go through the award ceremony together—it was just awesome.”
That same rewarding feeling has touched first-year men’s soccer player Carter Poinier, who volunteers at a youth ministry when he is at home in Plymouth, Mass. Poinier’s work sees him supervising and instructing a group of children, teaching them about the Bible while also playing games and keeping them active.
“We play basketball, we play soccer, we do some made-up games within the youth group,” Poinier said. “It’s all about getting the youth into the church and really making them feel loved and cared about.”
Looking to the future, Testo and these Owl athletes envision an even stronger connection between Keene State athletes and the community. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is now leading community service initiatives, ensuring that every sports team finds a nonprofit to work with throughout the year.
“The hardest part about doing community service is getting started,” said Testo. “Once you start, you realize the benefits and just get a passion for it.”
Poinier said he believes more Keene State student-athletes should get involved in community service, regardless of the form.
“One hundred percent,” he said. “I know a lot of people that do and have great relationships that have formed because of that.” Poinier said he believes community service can strengthen team culture and unity. “I think putting yourself in a positive situation automatically brings your mood up,” he said. “On the field, we might bicker, but off the field, [volunteering] would definitely bring us closer.” He said he hopes that in the future, Keene State athletes will use community service to build stronger connections within their teams and with the community, fostering an environment of positivity and support.
Elías Stowell Alemán can be contacted at
estowellaleman@kscequinox.com
