Running free; Moraine Valley cross country teams pair up with animal shelter

When cross country practice involves running around with dogs from the local shelter, that’s a good day. The Cyclones were able to do just that on Sept. 8.

The Animal Welfare League (AWL) in Chicago Ridge brought four dogs to get in a fun run around the practice fields of Moraine Valley’s campus with the Cyclone cross country men’s and women’s teams. This is the second year the two groups have paired up.

“The partnership between the Animal Welfare League and Moraine Valley cross country teams is definitely a good thing for the dogs and the team. They get to run with the dogs and the dogs get to experience human interaction and the exercise. We have volunteers who walk them, but they don’t get to run around a huge double soccer field,” said Mark Estrada, AWL kennel manager.

Thor, Jameison, Mercedes, and Rocko were the lucky pups to make the trip. Jameison has been a blood donor for the other dogs at the shelter. They are a mix of pit bulls and Labrador mixes, which are sweet and friendly canines unlike their reputation, Estrada added. All are up for adoption.

Each runner had a chance to take one of the dogs for a run, walk or roll on the grass.

“I thought it was cool. It’s something different from a bake sale or some other activity. Being with the dogs and the teams, it was a good day,” said freshman Cyclone runner Natalie Moreno (Reavis). “Just coming out here holding and touching the dogs, it felt good. I really do want to adopt one one of these days.”

“The dogs were freaking out from being outside in this big field. When I held it, it just took off like a car, like a big hunk of muscle that just wouldn’t stop. You kind of form a connection with them. It was a lot of fun. It’s like meeting a new person,” said freshman Cyclone runner Salah Mustafa (Andrew). “I’m really grateful for this whole thing. This is the first time I’ve actually gotten up and close and wrestled with dogs. Personally I don’t get much of a chance to see and play with dogs, but I’m covered in sweat and my arm is full of drool. I’m really happy right now.”