When the first‑year students arrived at Denison University for Move‑In Day, the campus buzzed with boxes, luggage and the excitement of a new chapter, and among the volunteers were members of the university’s football team, who saw an opportunity to put their strength to good use.
The players helped carry compact refrigerators that can weigh as much as 80 pounds, moving them up to three flights of stairs in Crawford Hall, a narrow stairwell that turned a simple act of moving a fridge into a test of endurance and coordination.
What began as a practical solution quickly evolved into a friendly contest, with players like Ricky Kampmann and Canyon Schneider keeping score of who could transport the most units, especially those destined for the third floor.
A Tradition of Teamwork
The competition was light‑hearted but genuine; teammates would joke about rankings while also cheering each other on, turning the physical labor into a shared experience that reinforced the squad’s bond.
For many of the newcomers, the assistance was a relief. Natalie Kukovich, a petite first‑year student, admitted that lifting her own refrigerator would have been a daunting task, and she was grateful for the extra hands that arrived just in time.
Some players, including Tom Frye, took on larger kitchen‑size units solo, showcasing the range of strength and willingness within the group.
The effort was not taken for granted; parents and the students themselves expressed heartfelt thanks, noting that the players’ involvement made the transition to college feel less isolating.
Beyond the physical help, the players emphasized the emotional payoff. As Kampmann reflected, there is a unique satisfaction in seeing a new student’s face light up when they realize someone is ready to shoulder their burden.
The assignment of specific residence halls further streamlined the process, ensuring that each fridge found its proper place without confusion, and allowing the team to focus on the task at hand.