BUFFALO, N.Y. — On a weekend filled with fossils, fun, and family discovery, the D'Youville University women's soccer team traded in their cleats for costumes and curiosity, stepping into the spotlight as volunteers at Dino Fest hosted by the Buffalo Museum of Science.
For the student-athletes, the day was about more than just lending a hand—it was about creating meaningful connections and inspiring young minds.
Throughout the event, the team carried out and ran demonstrations to large crowds of all ages, guiding guests through hands-on activities that brought the prehistoric world to life. Whether explaining fossils or sparking excitement about archaeology, the players embraced their roles as educators, helping visitors discover the "awesome side" of dinosaurs in a way that was both engaging and accessible.
But their impact extended beyond the exhibits.
The Saints helped with everything from organizing food orders to leading creative stations where children crafted origami and paper dinosaurs. Some players even donned costumes, drawing smiles and laughter from families as they brought DinoFest's playful spirit to life. Their energy turned simple interactions into memorable moments for museum guests.
Just as important as the activities themselves was the sense of connection the day fostered. By volunteering at Dino Fest, the team helped build new relationships between Buffalo Museum of Science and D'Youville University, strengthening ties within the wider Buffalo community. It was a reminder that athletics can serve as a bridge—not only between teammates, but between institutions and the people they serve.
Head coach Angela Nicholas-Tolsma emphasized the deeper purpose behind the team's involvement.
"Service to our local community is one of the pillars of our program," Nicholas-Tolsma said. "It's important to us that we utilize our platform to get involved and give back as much as we can. We work with many different organizations throughout the academic year to diversify our support. Our players grow exponentially through these experiences, leaving each opportunity more well-rounded, educated, and fulfilled as young adults."
For many of the student-athletes, stepping into these larger roles as volunteers was both rewarding and eye-opening. Teaching children and their families about what Dino Fest was all about required patience, creativity, and enthusiasm—qualities that translate seamlessly from the field to the community.
In the end, the day wasn't measured in goals scored, but in smiles shared, questions answered, and connections formed. And for the D'Youville women's soccer team, that made it a victory of a different kind—one rooted in service, learning, and the joy of giving back.
