Katie Smith Receives WNBA Cares Community Assist Award Presented by State Farm
July 11, 2013 - Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) News Release
NEW YORK - Seven-time WNBA All-Star Katie Smith of the New York Liberty, and one of the league's exemplary role models for young girls and women, was awarded the WNBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by State Farm for her contributions and commitment to the community in June.
Smith's passion to promote healthy and active lifestyles is demonstrated through her efforts both on and off the court. In partnership with The Garden of Dreams Foundation, the Madison Square Garden Company's nonprofit that transforms dreams into reality for children facing obstacles, Smith and Liberty teammates have hosted several events throughout this season, including a Dads and Daughters Day and fitness clinic to teach basketball fundamentals and the value of exercise. In recognition of Smith's efforts, the WNBA and State Farm are donating $5,000 to The Garden of Dreams Foundation on her behalf.
"It is vital to give back and find ways to get involved in community service," said Smith. "As professional athletes we are a part of our communities and have a responsibility to join others to strengthen them, including providing youth with the education and tools to lead healthy and active lifestyles."
A 14-year veteran, Smith is the oldest player in the WNBA at 39, but possesses an unrivaled dedication to staying fit and on top of her game. The all-time leading scorer in women's professional basketball is also currently pursuing a Master's degree in dietetics at Ohio State University.
In addition to hosting a series of fitness and healthy living clinics this past May and June, Smith joined 30 local schoolchildren for a tour of the Brooklyn Children's Museum to inspire educational discovery and social development.
The WNBA Community Assist Award presented by State Farm is awarded monthly during the season to the players that best reflects the WNBA's passion to make a difference in the community. Please visit wnba.com/statefarmcommunityassist for more information on the award and its recipients.
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Women's National Basketball Association Stories from July 11, 2013
- Liberty Forward Katie Smith Receives WNBA Cares Community Assist Award - New York Liberty
- Katie Smith Receives WNBA Cares Community Assist Award Presented by State Farm - WNBA
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