FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – With more than 5,000 new freshmen on the Northern Arizona University campus, there was a lot of assistance needed. That is where NAU Athletics stepped in for the annual Welcome Jacks, as the Lumberjack student-athletes were among the many who greeted the NAU class of 2021 on Thursday during move-in day.
 
"We always talk about athletics being the front door to the university and we want to show people that we mean it," said head men's basketball coach Jack Murphy. "Here at NAU, we're one big family and we mean what we say. Having our young student-athletes out here helping the young men and women who are moving into the dorms for the first time is a great experience. I'm excited to be surrounded by all the teams throughout campus who are putting in the same effort today."
 
The annual Welcome Jacks event is often the first opportunity for NAU student-athletes to make an initial impression on the newest freshmen. The football, swimming & diving, track & field and cross country, soccer, women's tennis, men's basketball and cheer & dance teams were out in full force unloading vehicles at a number of residence halls across campus.
 
"It's always super exciting to get out here and help people, especially because we need their support for us to have a great season," said senior wide receiver Emmanuel Butler. "We want to have the Dome packed every time we step in there for a home game, so it's good to show that we're more than just athletes. We care about the community and student life here on campus."
 
The first home athletics event is Friday night, Aug. 25 with the soccer team hosting Grand Canyon at 7 p.m. at Lumberjack Stadium. The fall 2017 semester commences on Monday, Aug. 28.

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