As part of the Sacramento Monarchs ongoing commitment to educating youth about the importance of reading and literacy, Monarchs legend Ruthie Bolton recently visited Ruhkula Elementary School in Rocklin to participate with the Ruhkula Family Fun Reading Night. Hosted by the Ruhkula Parent Teacher Club, Bolton was featured as a special guest reader for the evening, reading along with more than 100 children.

In addition to reading with the children, Bolton shared stories of leading the USA Women’s Basketball Team to two gold medals in the Olympic Games (1996 and 2000), serving in the U.S. Army, being the women’s associate basketball coach at William Jessup University and tips on staying in prime physical shape. Bolton also brought her Olympic medals to share with the children and provide them inspiration for reaching their dreams.

“It’s always good to be able to put a smile on someone’s face and to make a difference,” Bolton said. “This evening was special because we were showing the kids the importance of reading and it’s always special to be a role model.

“When I get a chance to hang out with kids and experience their joy, I get as much from the experience as they do.”