Like many of our volunteers, Kirk Hunter learned about San Antonio Sports when he helped with the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Marathon. “I retired about five years ago and started looking for outdoor activities where I could volunteer,” explains Kirk. “I had run many 10Ks and one marathon and knew that marathons always needed volunteers.” San Antonio Sports recruits and manages volunteers for the marathon, and Kirk became acquainted with our organization. “It made me aware of all the events San Antonio Sports is involved with, and I have since been a part of a variety of them.”
Kirk enjoys volunteering and gets satisfaction knowing how this special group plays a large role in creating a positive experience for participants.
His favorite event is San Antonio Sports’ i play! afterschool soccer tournament. “The kids were excited and enthusiastic, cheering and encouraging their teammates unendingly. What a great experience to witness!”
Kirk, who was raised in the Texas Panhandle, is also a good luck charm. Last year he volunteered as a team host for the UIL Girls Basketball State Tournament and was assigned the Amarillo Sandies. “Volunteer hosts spend a lot of time in the hallway outside the dressing room, as do the male coaches of girls basketball teams, so I got to visit with Sandies head coach, Jeff Williams, and mentioned I grew up in Philips, and he knew where that was. Amarillo won their first game, and afterwards Coach Williams asked that I serve as host for the next game. I did, and they won. State 5A champs!” This year Kirk again volunteered for the Girls and Boys State Basketball Tournaments and requested any team from the Panhandle. When Coach Williams saw him, he asked that Kirk serve as their team host for the final. He did, and they won their second consecutive 5A championship. “A team host only plays a small part in the tournament, but it’s a great feeling!”
If you’d like to join Kirk and get satisfaction out of helping others, check out our list of upcoming volunteer opportunities. Click here to learn more