Marshfield girls hockey team members give back

This story is sponsored by: Valley Communities Credit Union

Members of the Marshfield girls hockey team that particpated in the Cranberry Century Bike Tour to benefit the Ronald McDonald House included coach Nate Sparbel, Abbey Besler, Paige Johnson, Nicole Karl, Naomi Crump, Nicole Copet and Jala Zahn. (Photo submitted)

For MarshfieldAreaSports.com

MARSHFIELD – Members of the Marshfield High School girls hockey co-op are giving back to the community that has supported their quest for funding over the past several years by participating in the Cranberry Century Bike Tour, raising money for the Ronald McDonald House.

Jala Zahn, Tigers team member and student at Marshfield High School, approached coach Nate Sparbel in August with the idea.

Zahn had participated in the Bike Tour in years past, and thought it would be a good way for the team to show the community their appreciation for their financial support of the donations, raffles and fundraisers that helped fund the girls’ hockey team.

“I chose the Ronald McDonald House event because I do the bike ride every year and it helps the kids,” Zahn said. “It’s a win-win situation when you get to help a child in need and spend time with your team.”

Five team members, as well as Coach Sparbel, joined Zahn in the 40-mile Bike Tour that wound the country highways through Marshfield, Bakersville, Lindsey, Powers Bluff and Richfield.

“It’s nice to know the girls that participated realize how important it is
to give back to the community that also supports them,” Sparbel said. “It shows a lot about their character and who they are becoming as young ladies in life.”

The next community event the girls will take part in is the KEEP (Kiwani’s Enormous Equipment Playground) event, Oct. 2 at the Marshfield Fairgrounds, which helps to raise money for area youth groups in the community.