LSSU Student-Athletes Honor 9/11 with Flag Display

Student-athletes from Lake Superior State University (LSSU) came together with other volunteers to create a powerful tribute on September 11. For the 13th consecutive year, the West Pier Apartments complex in Sault Ste. Marie hosted an event where 3,000 flags were installed to commemorate the 9/11 tragedy.

The LSSU men’s basketball team has participated in the event every year since its inception, and this year, several members of the women’s basketball team also volunteered. Despite the fact that all of the student-athletes were born after the attacks, their coaches emphasized the importance of their participation.

“We say we never forget, so it’s good to educate them a little bit,” said Steve Hettinga, the men’s head basketball coach. “A lot of them will ask, ‘Coach, where were you when it happened?’ and they’ll learn a little bit about it, which is a good thing.”

Grace Howrigon, the women’s head basketball coach, added that the event was an important way for the teams to demonstrate their commitment to community service. “We talk about showing up for our community all the time, and it was really important that we came out here and did this,” she said.

The flag display will remain in place until Monday, serving as a solemn reminder for the community.