NORTHFIELD, Vt.—The Norwich University baseball team has been working hard on the practice field to prepare for the Northern portion of its season, but on Friday, March 22, the Cadets put in added work in the classroom, participating in "Read Across America" in the Williamstown School District.

Now in its 16th year, this year-round program focuses on motivating children and teens to read through events, partnerships, and reading resources, according to the National Education Association website.

Several Cadet players spent time reading with students across multiple grade levels and explained the importance of reading.

Cadets who participated in the event were: seniors Sam Philbrook (Rochester, Mass.), Dustin Shimkus (Collinsville, Ill.), Brad Hudson (Eugene, Ore.), andJosh Beardsley (Olney, Md.). Juniors who participated included Devin Cilley(Tunbridge, Vt.) and Sean Gerich (Chicago, Ill.). Sophomore Brandon Place(Concord, N.H.) joined freshmen Billy Whaley (Northfield, Vt.), Brian Whaley (St. Louis, Mo.), Cody Lindell (Cranston, R.I.) and Brian Baker (Keene, N.H.).

"The Read Across America program is a great way for the Norwich University baseball team to give back to the surrounding community.  This program is a win for everyone: the kids of Williamstown Elementary School, the Norwich University baseball team, and Norwich University," Cilley said.

The Cadets play Wednesday on the road against Southern Vermont at 3 p.m.

*Release courtesy of Norwich University Sports Information Dept.