When Katie Jacobs and her friend, Zoe Renschler, came up with the idea in 2006 of donating coats to those in need, they were thrilled when 88 garments arrived at the University of Evansville soccer office. This year, the number could surpass 200.

The fourth annual 'Kick The Cold, Give A Coat' program, administered by the Purple Aces' men's soccer team and the Aces Soccer Camps, is under way. New and gently used coats are being accepted each weekday through December 23 at two locations inside UE's Carson Center–-the men's soccer office and the UE Fitness Center.

Katie Jacobs, now 12, is the daughter of UE men's soccer coach Mike Jacobs. Katie and Zoe's idea for a community outreach program grew from the 88 coats they received in 2006 to 123 in 2007, and 178 last year. All coats are donated to Clayton's Coat-A-Kid program. Clayton's cleans each garment, then helps distribute them throughout the Tri-State.

"Being a part of something bigger than yourself is something that we stress in both our locker room and in my household," says Coach Jacobs. "'KICK THE COLD' is a great way to help those who are less fortunate during the holidays, and it gives a tremendous sense of proprietorship because we are helping people right here in Evansville. I am very proud of the role that both our Aces Soccer program, as well as my daughter, can have to assist our community."