CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Citadel Track and Field and Cross Country teams recently wrapped up their annual holiday food drive, continuing a long-standing tradition of supporting families in need throughout the Charleston area. This year's effort ranked among the most successful to date, reinforcing the program's commitment to service and community engagement.
Despite rising food costs, cadet-student-athletes demonstrated impressive thrift, creativity, and teamwork to maximize every donation. In the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, they collected canned goods and non-perishable items from classmates, faculty, staff, and friends. They also raised funds to purchase discounted turkeys from local grocery stores, ensuring dozens of families could enjoy a complete Thanksgiving meal.
This year, the teams donated 36 turkeys along with macaroni, cornbread, potatoes, stuffing, green beans, corn, yams, and other staple holiday items to East Cooper Community Outreach (ECCO). Upon delivery, ECCO announced that the donations totaled just over 1,900 pounds of food. Cadet-athletes also added essential household items such as toothpaste, toilet paper, and paper towels, recognizing the daily necessities that many families struggle to afford.
The food drive's roots stretch back to 1998, when current head coach Kris Kut was a junior at The Citadel. What began with the modest goal of helping four families has grown tremendously over more than two decades. This year, the teams provided enough food to support more than 40 local families.
Head coach Kris Kut reflected on the impact of the team's efforts:
"It is incredible to watch our cadet-athletes work together and give so much of their time and energy. This experience opens their eyes to the challenges faced by families just miles from campus and reminds all of us how important it is to support our community and to not take things for granted. It is easy to forget how fortunate we are. This food drive serves as a powerful reminder."
Former team members frequently reach out during the holiday season to share memories of shopping for the drive and to reflect on the impact the tradition had on them. Over the years, it has become a meaningful way for generations of Citadel athletes to give back and stay connected to their community.
The Bulldogs also take pride in the work required to complete the drive. This year's effort spanned two weeks and required countless hours—from collecting donations to making repeated trips to local grocery stores. In total, cadet-athletes contributed well over 20 hours of community service. The final delivery required two vehicles, and the team spent significant time sorting, organizing, and bagging every item before loading it for transport.
Stay up to date with all things Bulldogs track and field at citadelsports.com. Follow @CitadelSports and @CitadelTFXC on X and Instagram for updates throughout the season.
