WALNUT RIDGE – The Williams Baptist University (WBU) wrestling program recently volunteered to clean up a section of the Lawrence County Rail-Trail. The WBU wrestlers converged on a section of trail near the Williams campus in northern Walnut Ridge.
The rail-trail is a 6-mile walking/biking trail that stretches from the WBU campus through Walnut Ridge and Hoxie. The trail was extended last month to reach the Williams campus.
“Our team was excited about helping our community. With the new connection from the rail-trail to campus, this is a great way to bridge the gap between the Walnut Ridge community and WBU,” said Head Coach Todd Allen.
The team spent time trimming weeds, as well as picking up debris from the trail. Their efforts will allow trail runners and bikers an easier route between campus and downtown Walnut Ridge.
The service project allows the team to display the NAIA’s four core values: respect, servant leadership, integrity and responsibility.
“This was also a great kickstart to our school year. It really sets the tone on the kind of team I want us to be this year. We need to be servant leaders. This is a way for our team to serve the community and people that we otherwise would not reach. This is how I want our guys to live their lives, as servants to each other and their community,” said Allen.
The wrestling team has enjoyed success on the mat over the last several years as well. The Eagles have won three team conference championships, as well as several individual conference championships. They also have notched two individual national champions over the last four years.
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