Valparaiso University men’s basketball players Cooper Schwieger and Joe Vick made a special appearance at McAfee Animal Hospital, bringing together fans, families, and pets for a unique community event. The gathering was more than just an autograph session, it was a celebration of the long standing relationship between Valpo Athletics and the McAfee Animal Hospital.
Seated at a decorated booth outside the animal hospital, Schwieger and Vick engaged with attendees of all ages, signing memorabilia and sharing heartfelt moments with fans. Head Coach Roger Powell Jr. addressed the crowd, describing the deep-rooted connection between the McAfee family and Valpo basketball.
"I came back to Valpo because I believe in the city, this program, and the magic that's happened at the Arch; it's time to bring it back," Powell said. "What an honor and a privilege it is for our guys to come and just show their support for a family that has meant so much to Valpo basketball."
Dr. Larry McAfee and his daughter, Dr. Brooke McAfee, have been involved with the Valpo community for years. Larry McAfee’s commitment to both veterinary medicine and community service has been a family tradition.
"My dad started McAfee Animal Hospital in 1943. I've been here since 1975, and I was in the practice for 44 years,” Larry McAfee said. “I did everything in my power to dissuade my daughter from veterinary medicine, but I didn't have any luck. Brooke was following me around as a girl when she was five years old, and I am so proud of the three generations of McAfee Animal Hospital."
Laurel Hosmer, Director of Athletics at Valparaiso University, stressed the importance of events like this.
"The collision of Valpo athletics and our student-athletes is very exciting to see,” Hosmer said. “It’s so valuable for student-athletes to step beyond the court to develop meaningful connections.”
Schwieger expressed his gratitude to the staff of McAfee Animal Hospital.
"I remember meeting Dr. McAfee in St. Louis after the tournament game and talking to him in the hotel lobby. That meant so much to me, and that was a big part of me coming back," Schwieger said. "I think this is cool because I actually really like animals. I have a dog at home that I love, and I miss him sometimes.”
Both athletes have a deep appreciation for the event and their connection with their city. There is a significance of strengthening ties within the community and supporting one another.
Brooke McAfee expressed her enthusiasm for collaborating with local businesses, noting the long-standing presence of both Valparaiso University and McAfee Animal Hospital in the community.
"It’s important to have a sense of community and work together to keep Valpo what it is," Brooke McAfee said.
Brooke McAfee believes that promoting animal care is vital. She appreciates the pet owners of Valpo and the positive impact these events have on raising awareness and encouraging connections.
Following the autograph session, Larry McAfee and Brooke McAfee provided Schwieger and Vick with a tour of the hospital, sharing its history and discussing its longstanding role in the community. They shared just how much respect and appreciation there is between Valpo athletics and the McAfee family, showing how sports and community service can easily come together to make an impact.
For more information about McAfee Animal Hospital, visit mcafeeah.com.