MCKENZIE, Tenn. – The Bethel University women's basketball team joined other Wildcat student-athletes Wednesday for McKenzie's annual Walk to School Day, continuing a long-standing tradition of connecting with the community.
The Lady Cats walked alongside students and greeted children at the elementary school. Members of the Bethel baseball team also participated by joining the women's squad. 
Bethel Head Coach Chris Nelson said, "We always look forward to this day and always enjoy every minute of our time with the young students. This school, town and area are so supportive of our program, and we want them to know we appreciate that and love them all. This also aligns with our Champions of Character initiative."
Nelson added, "It is always even more special when we have breakfast for our team at our home and then go to the school. We were excited that members of our baseball team joined us today as well."
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics' Champions of Character program helps student-athletes understand and practice five core values: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership. Those values guide the program's efforts on campuses and in communities across the NAIA.
Bethel has been recognized as a Champions of Character Five-Star Institution for 11 consecutive years and is one of 203 institutions nationwide to earn the honor.
Institutions earn points by demonstrating a commitment to character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion. Exceptional student-athlete grade point averages and minimal or no ejections during competition also contribute to the recognition.
Through activities such as Walk to School Day, Bethel student-athletes put those values into action while strengthening the university's connection with the community.