The FSCJ women's basketball team volunteered at Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary in March 2025.
March 26, 2025

FSCJ Women’s Basketball Scores Big With Community Service at Catty Shack Ranch

In a powerful display of teamwork off the court, the Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) Women's Basketball Team recently spent a day volunteering at Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary—making a meaningful impact and creating lasting memories with the sanctuary's team and animal residents.

Trading basketballs for paintbrushes and jerseys for work gloves, these student-athletes rolled up their sleeves and got to work, proving their commitment to not just athletics but to community and compassion.

Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Jacksonville, Florida, providing a forever home to rescued big cats and educating the public about their care and conservation.

Giving Back, One Brushstroke at a Time

The day was packed with activities to support the sanctuary's mission of providing a safe, loving, and forever home to endangered big cats. The team tackled several projects, including:

  • Painting fences to help maintain safe and secure habitats for the animals
  • Cleaning facilities, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for both the animals and visitors
  • Guiding educational tours for groups of elementary school children, sharing the stories of Catty Shack's residents, and inspiring the next generation of wildlife advocates

Leading On and Off the Court

Community involvement is a cornerstone of the FSCJ Athletic Department, and this experience was a powerful example of student-athletes using their platform to uplift others.

"It was eye-opening," said Coach Eaton. "We learned so much about the animals and what it takes to keep a sanctuary like this running. Being able to give back while learning something new was really special."

The sanctuary, which relies heavily on volunteer support, expressed deep gratitude for the team's time and effort. From helping maintain the grounds to educating young minds, the FSCJ women's basketball team demonstrated the kind of leadership and teamwork that extends well beyond the basketball court. To learn more or get involved, visit www.cattyshack.org.

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