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Hope For The Warriors is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting service members, veterans, and military families through comprehensive programs that promote healing, resilience, and transition. Since its founding in 2006, the organization has focused on restoring a sense of self, strengthening families, and rekindling hope for those who have served. Their efforts span clinical health and wellness, sports and recreation, and career transition services—empowering veterans to thrive in life beyond the military.

On April 26th, the MacArthur Generals and the Mepham Pirates took to the field at Farmingdale State College for a special charity baseball game benefiting the Hope For The Warriors Foundation. This inspiring event is part of an annual tradition started by Eric Passman, a passionate baseball coach in the Bellmore-Merrick High School District, who has championed the cause through the power of high school athletics.

The game brought together student-athletes, families, and community members in a powerful show of unity and support. Together, they raised nearly $2,000 for the foundation, helping advance its mission to serve those who’ve bravely served our nation.

The evening was marked by a deep sense of pride and purpose. Veterans were honored during a moving pre-game ceremony, while players wore patriotic accessories to express their solidarity. Though the matchup delivered an exciting display of high school baseball, the event’s true victory lay in the community’s shared commitment to honoring and uplifting our heroes.

This meaningful tradition is a shining example of how sports, leadership, and community spirit can come together to create lasting impact—one pitch at a time.

Photo caption: The varsity and junior varsity teams from Southampton High School and Southampton Intermediate School recently came together to volunteer as part of the Southampton Town 2025 Great East End Cleanup. The team members worked to collect garbage and clean up the area all around the high school.

 

Photo courtesy of the Southampton Union Free School District

The Lynbrook High School girls lacrosse team recently stepped onto the field for more than just a win—they played with purpose, heart, and a message that extends far beyond the scoreboard. Hosting their Morgan’s Message game, the team joined a growing national movement to raise awareness around mental health in athletics.

Spearheaded by student-athlete ambassador Payton Stalter, the event honored the legacy of Morgan Rodgers, a former collegiate lacrosse player whose story continues to inspire athletes across the country to speak openly about mental health. For Lynbrook’s lacrosse program, the game was about more than awareness—it was a commitment.

“As a program, we believe it’s our responsibility to support our athletes not just physically, but emotionally,” said Coach Joe LaBarbera. “Hosting this game gives us a powerful way to break the stigma around mental health.”

The team didn’t just talk the talk—they led by example. Players courageously shared their own experiences with mental health, reminding peers and fans alike that behind every jersey is a human being. The message was clear: strength includes vulnerability, and it’s okay to ask for help.

In preparation for the game, the team designed custom shirts and raised over $1,750 for Morgan’s Message, with the community showing up in force to support the cause. “It’s about showing we’re here for each other both on and off the field.”

The impact of the event rippled well beyond the lacrosse field. Conversations about mental health sparked throughout the school and wider community, reinforcing the message that no one has to struggle alone.

Lynbrook’s Morgan’s Message game served as a powerful reminder: when we prioritize the human over the athlete, we create space for connection, healing, and lasting change.

On a special day for the Schroeder community, Schroeder Athletics came together to honor one of their most cherished All-Time Warriors, Mr. Kruze. The heartfelt tribute, led by the softball team, served as a powerful reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on both a program and a community.

In collaboration with the Wilmot Cancer Institute, this event not only celebrated Mr. Kruze’s incredible legacy but also raised awareness for the ongoing fight against cancer. The Warrior spirit was on full display as players, coaches, and fans united in a show of love, respect, and support.

Mr. Kruze has been a dedicated supervisor with the athletic program and school district since the 1960s. Currently battling stage 4 cancer, he receives treatments at the Wilmot Cancer Center in Rochester. Every year, they host a “Kruzer Night” to honor his contributions and raise funds for cancer research. This year, the event raised over $1,600, thanks to the hard work of the girls’ softball team. The players not only communicated the event but also engaged with spectators, collecting donations during various events throughout the day.

With the JV and Varsity teams involved, around 28 kids and 5 coaches participated in this meaningful fundraiser. The school was able to collect generous donations from a variety of spectators attending the events on campus, making it a truly memorable and impactful night.

The Horace Greeley girls varsity lacrosse team recently held a special dedication game in honor of Morgan’s Message, a powerful initiative raising awareness for mental health in student-athletes. Sophomore lacrosse player Sami Rose shared insights into the event’s planning, participation, and the impact it had on the team and community.

Organizing the Event

This year’s Morgan’s Message game was a true team effort, organized by a combination of coaches, student-athletes, and school administrators. The student-athletes took the lead in planning and promoting the event, with support from coaches and administrators who worked behind the scenes to ensure its success. Junior lacrosse player Grace Richards, who introduced Morgan’s Message to Greeley last year, played a crucial role in coordinating with the organization to provide impactful stickers and bracelets featuring the Morgan’s Message butterfly—a symbol of mental health awareness.

How the Teams Participated

Horace Greeley’s participation was heartfelt and visible. The team wore shirts adorned with the Morgan’s Message butterfly and blue ribbons to show support for mental health awareness. The boys’ team took it a step further by placing butterfly stickers on their helmets, demonstrating a deep commitment to the cause. The event also featured a speech by a Greeley student-athlete, followed by a moment of silence in honor of Morgan Rodgers, whose memory and advocacy continue to inspire.

Supporting the Cause

Both the Greeley and Greenwich lacrosse teams rallied behind Morgan’s Message to raise awareness about mental health in student-athletes. The game provided an opportunity to play for something bigger than the sport, highlighting the importance of open conversations about emotional well-being. The teams showed their commitment to sharing information, fostering a supportive environment, and promoting positive mental health practices for all athletes.

This event was a reminder that supporting each other and raising awareness can go beyond the field, creating lasting change in how we approach mental health in sports.

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