BURLINGTON, Vt. - The University of Vermont softball team recently took part in a community service event at the King Street Youth Center. The Catamounts volunteered with the youth center's after school program, splitting up into groups and helping with homework, playing games and working on Christmas tree decorations.

"Volunteering at the King Street Youth Center was a fantastic opportunity for us to give back to the community," said Vermont head coach Marcie Hickey. "Working closely with the kids and having the chance to build relationships with them was a fulfilling experience for all of us and we hope to continue working with this organization in the future."

The Catamounts return seven seniors and all but one regular from last season when they won 15 games. Vermont opens the 2007 season on Feb. 23 when it takes on Akron in Chattanooga, Tenn. as part of the Tennessee-Chattanooga Tournament.