As part of the Indianapolis Public Library Call-The-Fever program presented by Old National Bank, Indiana Fever players Layshia Clarendon, Briann January, Shenise Johnson, and Jeanette Pohlen traveled to the Central Library Thursday to meet up with third grade students from Christel House Academy South and West to participate in the Read Like a Pro event within the Learning Curve. They all went there with one goal: to stress the importance of reading and raise awareness with the children on how it impacts everyone throughout their entire lives.

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When the players arrived they started by introducing themselves, asking the students questions and talking about personal aspects of their lives in an effort to relate to the students and get them comfortable with the setting. Once everyone arrived, the students moved to their designated reading stations and the Fever players took turns rotating to each station reading with the kids. The kids were reminded at each station of the importance of reading and were tested on their knowledge of the books with questions and encouraged participation. The players made sure that every book was read and kept them active and attentive with fun games like Simon Says.

At the end of the event, the players explained to the kids why reading is so important and tied it in with their everyday lives. They even included it with the desires to be professional athletes. They stressed that, no matter what their career choice was, reading would always be a huge part of their lives. Not only that, but they made a reference to anti-bullying and how it is not okay to make someone feel bad about themselves if they aren’t as good at reading compared to others.

To conclude, the players quizzed the students on what they had learned in the books they read, and the students’ hands shot up, answering every question correctly. Many students were looking up to the players as role models and were very enthusiastic about participating. One student said the highlight of his day was, “being around the players and learning with them.” It helps the students know that professional athletes go through the same struggles and daily routines as they do.

As the students left, they were all giving hugs and high fives to their favorite players and shouting their names. The players expressed how great of an experience it was getting the kids involved in reading and seeing their eagerness to grow.

Through the Fever’s Read Like a Pro initiative you can hear your very own Indiana Fever players reading a book through the Call-The-Fever program presented by Old National Bank with the Indianapolis Public Library.  Each week in August a different player will be featured.  Call (317) 275-4444 or toll free at (877) 275-9007 to Call The Fever and hear them read you a book.

Starting Aug 3: Layshia Clarendon reading Good Night, Chickie
Starting Aug 10: Shenise Johnson reading The Sleepy Little Alphabet
Starting Aug 17: Briann January reading Leo The Late Bloomer
Starting Aug 24: Jeanette Pohlen reading Hello Moon
Starting Aug 31: Natalie Achonwa reading I Like Myself