Aug. 25, 2007
OPELIKA, Ala. - Approximately 30 Auburn football players made an appearance on Saturday at the fifth annual Tiger Bash, an event that brings together student-athletes and the children treated at Storybook Farm.
"We come out here to see the kids, and they look up to us," freshman offensive lineman Lee Ziemba said. "It's just a really neat thing."
The players had a chance to interact with the children both inside and outside the riding arena. While some children took the time to have their shirts autographed in the stables, others were being photographed leading horses with the assistance of the Tigers.
"For our kids to be able to get up close and personal with their heroes is mighty special to them," said CEO and founder Dena Dougherty. "We're in the highlight of our year, and we're just so pleased and proud to be the team's philanthropy. To have Coach Tuberville support our program has meant a great deal to us."
Aubie, along with several members of the Auburn cheerleading squad, also accompanied the football team to give children and parents the complete Auburn atmosphere.
"I think it's a good experience, because the kids come out and support Auburn football games," freshman wide receiver Chris Slaughter said. "There's nothing like giving back to the community and coming out to show our support, too."
Storybook Farm, Inc. is a nonprofit horseback riding center that offers spiritual nourishment and emotional healing to children with disabilities, life-threatening diseases, or those who have suffered a loss. For more information, call Dena Dougherty at 334-444-5966 or email her at hope@story-book-farm.org. You can also visit the Storybook Farm website, www.story-book-farm.org.