OUTBACK IN MIDLOTHIAN HOSTS FALL SPORTS SQUADS FOR DINNER

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The team that eats together and plays together, stays together. This mantra came true for several student athletes and VCU athletics staff members this week outside the Verizon Wireless Arena.

For the second straight year, Outback Steakhouse in Midlothian has signed on to donate several meals to VCU athletics and students athletes from various teams. This past Monday night was the kick off with a gathering of fall sports teams and several athletic staff members for a delicious meal.  

All the women’s fall teams including field hockey, volleyball, women’s soccer and women’s cross country congregated outside the Siegel Center to be served some of the Steakhouse’s finest.

The student-athletes were served chicken, potatoes, green beans, salads and more while they enjoyed spending time together off their respective playing fields.

The event is run by Kevin Kaczmarek, the proprietor of the Outback Steakhouse at Huguenot and Robious Road. He donates the food and assembles the staff that prepares the dinner. Many of the servers are Rams themselves, attend VCU, and simply want to volunteer their time.

Outback assists in other special events and donor functions that take place during the VCU men’s basketball season.

It is events such as the “Fall Sports” gathering that promote friendships outside of certain teams, and allow for a greater sense of community. Field hockey head coach Kelly McQuade thinks opportunities like this are valuable for coaches and athletes alike.

"We're very grateful for Outback for coming out and providing us with a great meal. Events like this only help to further the family atmosphere that is VCU athletics by bringing together a bunch of programs for an enjoyable evening," McQuade said.