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The AWHS Girls Ice Hockey team recently showcased their commitment to supporting the fight against cancer in an incredible way during their CCL match-up against the Cougars. As part of their Hockey Fights Cancer initiative, the team hosted a raffle to win Boston Bruins tickets, with all proceeds going to cancer research.

This event, which united the community for a night of exciting hockey action, also emphasized the team’s dedication to making a meaningful difference. The raffle winner was announced during the game, but the true victory lies in the funds raised to support such an important cause.

Thanks to the generous donation of two Boston Bruins tickets for the February 4th game against the Minnesota Wild, located in the exclusive Cross Insurance Board Room, the team had an amazing prize to offer. To raise funds, the players sold raffle tickets both before and during the game. Flyers and word-of-mouth helped promote the raffle, and a table was set up at the game to encourage fans to participate.

In addition to the raffle, the team handed out “I Fight For” cards to fans as they entered the arena, allowing them to fill out the names of loved ones or friends battling cancer. The response was overwhelming, with the team selling 50 $20 raffle tickets, ultimately raising $1000 for Hockey Fights Cancer.

This $1000 will be donated to the Reo Todesca Memorial Cancer Foundation, a foundation with deep ties to the hockey community. The foundation was established in memory of Reo Todesca, the mother of Paul Todesca, Assistant Hockey Coach at Xaverian High School. Over the past eight years, the foundation has raised more than $550,000 to support cancer research, and the AWHS Girls Ice Hockey team is proud to contribute to this impactful cause.

The team’s efforts truly exemplify the spirit of unity and dedication to fighting cancer, and the community’s support has been pivotal in making this event such a success.

On Feb. 14, students from the Bayport-Blue Point High School team sports elective participated in the school’s first bracket-style pickleball tournament to raise awareness and support for the Dezy Strong Foundation. The entire school was invited to attend and cheer on the students and staff as they faced off in this exciting event.

The Dezy Strong Foundation was founded by Matthew “Dezy” DiStefano, who was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer in February 2019 and sadly passed away in January 2020. The foundation is dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by cancer.

In the days leading up to the tournament, students showed their support by purchasing Dezy Strong gear and wearing it on Feb. 13. The tournament, held on Feb. 14, marked the culmination of their efforts to raise awareness for this important cause. 

Photo captions: 

1-2: Bayport-Blue Point High School team sports elective students went head-to-head with teachers in a thrilling pickleball tournament, raising awareness for the Dezy Strong Foundation.

3: The local 7-Eleven generously donated gift bags to the participants of the pickleball tournament and provided coffee and treats to the Bayport-Blue Point High School staff. 

 

Photos courtesy of Bayport-Blue Point School District.  

 

Photo caption: Wearing purple to mark the day, students across the South Country Central School District took part in P.S. I Love You Day on Feb. 14. The day aims to raise awareness about bullying and suicide while promoting kindness. Students wrote messages of kindness and decorated their schools in purple. At Bellport High School, the student council raised funds for the P.S. I Love You Day organization through the sale of T-shirts. 

 

Photo courtesy of the South Country Central School District

The Arlington boys lacrosse team isn’t just making an impact on the field—they’re making a difference in their community. For the past eight years, the team’s senior class has been committed to giving back through the Dutchess County Outreach program’s evening meal distribution.

A Tradition of Service

Every second Tuesday of the month from September to February, five senior players and one coach dedicate their time to preparing and distributing meals to those in need. From 4-6 PM, they work alongside kitchen staff to ensure that roughly 200 meals are ready for community members who rely on this vital program.

The Process

At 4 PM, the players and coach arrive and begin meal prep—whether for that evening’s service or for upcoming meals in the following days. When the doors open, each visitor receives three boxed dinners, three bottled waters, and additional milk upon request. The meal distribution runs for one hour, after which the players assist with a light cleanup before wrapping up the night.

A Team Effort

This effort wouldn’t be possible without Chef Dave, who leads the kitchen, and a dedicated dishwasher who helps keep things running smoothly. The Arlington lacrosse program has embraced this tradition of service, teaching players the value of giving back and strengthening their connection with the community.

More Than Just a Game

The Arlington boys lacrosse team continues to prove that leadership extends beyond the field. Their commitment to service, teamwork, and community support showcases the power of student-athletes to make a real impact.

👏 Thank you to these young leaders for their dedication to serving others!