MACON, Ga. - Ahead of the 2025 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Football Media Day, the Kentucky State University football program took time to serve the local community, volunteering at the Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia on Monday.

The Thorobreds spent the afternoon assisting staff, organizing donations, and supporting the mission's outreach efforts to those in the local Macon community.

"Giving back is something we value very highly within our program," said Head Coach Felton Huggins Jr. "It gives us an opportunity to lend a helping hand to those less fortunate. We are very intentional—when the opportunity presents itself—to go out and deposit good energy into the world and be a blessing to others."

The service opportunity resonated deeply with many student-athletes, including wide receiver Jaden Hale, who reflected on his own upbringing while serving.

"It felt great to help the community and to just be a part of something bigger than myself," Hale said. "Growing up, I didn't have it all, so just to give back to the less fortunate means a lot for me."

Defensive back Lawrence McConnell echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the broader impact of engaging with the community.

"Giving back to the community is something I take seriously," McConnell said. "I believe it's important to contribute to something bigger than myself, and community service allows me to do that in a real, hands-on way."

Kentucky State opens its 2025 football season on Aug. 30 against Central State for the Detroit Football Classic. The team's visit to the Rescue Mission marked a meaningful start to the week as they prepare to represent the program on and off the field during SIAC Media Day in Macon.
 
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