Organizations like Minneapolis PAL would not exist without the generosity of hundreds of people who answer the call to volunteer their time to help others. PAL uses volunteers to perform many different tasks ranging from helping to coach and mentor youth to writing articles, driving kids to programming, and organizing equipment. Volunteers do not always get to share in the glory but without their help it would be impossible to get all the work done.

At PAL we believe it’s important to show our appreciation for the work volunteers do. This tribute is dedicated to one of our valued volunteers, Lucas Schmidt.

Lucas’s Corner

His name is Lucas Wayne Schmidt, also known to the coaching staff and football children as “Coach Schmitty” Lucas is interning with PAL as an Assistant Program Manager. Lucas attends Winona State University where he is studying Recreation Tourism and Therapeutic Recreation (RTTR).

Lucas has been working closely with Minneapolis PAL football teams (9U, 11U, and 13U) since August of 2011. He also assisted the teams during weigh ins that were held at the 2011 Football Games Classic at the Minneapolis Metrodome. Lucas, who happens to be First Aid and CPR certified, has already used his skills to assist children on and off of the football field.