Building Community Through Athletics

The construction of a new multi-sport complex at Emory & Henry not only builds a new facility for attracting stellar athletes but also builds community, according to Annalyse McHone, an Emory & Henry senior and long-distance runner.

“This means everything to us (student-athletes),” McHone said. “This brings community support to our efforts. Often our races in track and field are far away, so we don’t get as much support from alumni as other sports.”

The new facility also brings greater respect to Emory & Henry’s new track and field programs. “Right now, when recruits come, we don’t have a facility of our own to show them. They are excited, however, to know that we are wanting to build one. For many of these athletes, a facility is not important; it’s the chance to compete for Emory & Henry. But for many others, it is the difference between whether they will come or not.”

McHone, an exercise science diet and nutrition major from Shawsville, Va., is pursuing a career as a registered dietitian. In addition to being a cross-country athlete, she also competes in numerous long-distance track events.