PHOENIX, Ariz. \u2013 The New Mexico Lobos football team is away from home on Christmas, preparing for a big bowl game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Friday.<\/p>\n
The Lobos are in Phoenix, and embracing the holiday spirit by giving back to the community.<\/p>\n
Lobo football players gathered on Christmas to distribute meals to those in need , continuing a tradition hosted by the Salvation Army for 30 years.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s just, super great feeling. And, you know, we\u2019re just super blessed to be able to just, come out here and just and just help out,\u201d said Richard Pearce, Lobo senior offensive lineman.<\/p>\n
Lieutenant Colonel Chuck Fowler, Salvation Army Southwest Division Divisional Commander, said, \u201cWe\u2019re going to do nearly 5000 meals served. Now behind us. What the Lobos are helping with is the home deliveries.\u201d<\/p>\n
Fowler explained that the Lobos are assisting with delivering approximately 2500 meals to those who are homebound and unable to attend the event at the Phoenix Convention Center.<\/p>\n
The Lobos may not be with their families this holiday, but they are spreading joy in Phoenix.<\/p>\n
\u201cI like to be the general. So I\u2019m the one giving out the package, and I\u2019m telling my guys how many meals we need to, pass out,\u201d one of the Lobos said.<\/p>\n
The Lobos will play in the Rate Bowl Friday at 2:30 p.m.<\/p>\n