Prospect High football players getting into community service

New Prospect High School football coach Dan DeBoeuf has made an early impression on his players about the importance of community service.

DeBoeuf was hired at the Mount Prospect school in February to replace Mike Sebestyen, who resigned. Prospect Parent Football Council President Renee Martin said that later that month - in his first meeting with players, assistant coaches and parents - DeBoeuf mentioned community involvement is something he wanted to see from the teenagers.

The Knights have quickly taken to donating their time, Martin said. One of their efforts this month was at the Lutheran Home senior living complex in Arlington Heights, where about 15 teens played bingo with residents.

"It was heartwarming to witness the interaction of these boys with the elderly," Martin said. "I was fortunate enough to hear conversations among them. One resident of Lutheran Home spoke of her children who went to Prospect and what a great experience it was for them. She said she even might make it to a game this year to cheer on the Knights."

Martin said a return visit is planned.

In May, some players volunteered at the Mount Prospect Superhero 5K. The race benefits the Mount Prospect Parks Foundation's tree campaign.