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By Joe Toppe

Staff Writer

EASLEY-The Academy Sports in Easley will celebrate its official grand opening with a three day event beginning Friday.

“During the three day event, we are going to have giveaways, hot deals on products, demonstrations, and food vendors, said Senior Communications Coordinator of Academy Sports, Eric Herrera.

As part of the opening, Academy Sports partnered with the Easley Branch of the Pickens County YMCA and offered $100 gift certificates to 26 Easley children.

“The kids selected were children in the after school program, that we, at the Easley Branch of the YMCA felt would benefit the most from the opportunity,” said Branch Director of the Easley YMCA, Alida Gardiner.

The shopping spree took place on Oct. 11, one day before the store was opened to the public.

“I am so thankful to Academy Sports and all their staff for giving our kids this once in a lifetime experience. The joy that the associates had while helping the kids was just as wonderful to see as the excitement from the kids. I can’t put into words how much Academy Sports’ generosity meant to us,” said Branch Administrative Director at the YMCA, Carrie Raines.

Each child was accompanied by two Academy associates while shopping.

“We are focused on giving back to the communities, and it is a great event for the kids. The partnership with the YMCA was amazing. It was a great thing for us to be part of,” said Herrera.

The Easley branch of Academy Sports was the 150th store to be opened.