Number of Participants: 6
Hours Donated: 12
Value of Time Served: $608
Event Type: Children & Youth
Sport: Softball
School: Orchard Park High School
Date: March 1, 2024
Location:
Orchard Park
NY, USA
About:
Throughout the month of March, several girls from the team have been actively involved in Orchard Park Little League clinics held on Sundays. Their presence serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for the younger athletes. Specifically, the varsity girls lead the participants through various drills, imparting valuable lessons on teamwork and work ethic.
Tentatively they have scheduled their Mental Health Awareness/Suicide Prevention game for May 2nd at Orchard Park, where they will face off against Clarence. This marks the third consecutive year of organizing this event. Unlike a typical fundraiser for the program, all proceeds generated from this event will be directed towards a chosen charity. In the past, they have donated to the Mental Health Advocates of WNY, contributing approximately $1200 in the first year and around $800 last year.
During the game, the girls sell awareness bracelets, while parents generously donate snacks, goodies, and water for sale. The team wears purple and teal jerseys adorned with the helpline number, symbolizing our support for mental health awareness. Before the game commences, two athletes deliver speeches to raise awareness among attendees. They have been fortunate to witness a strong turnout over the past two years and aim to uphold this meaningful tradition.
Additionally, they typically engage in another community service project during the season, although specifics are yet to be finalized.
Week after week, different members of the team volunteer their time at the clinics. Seniors Ella McMullen and Evelyn Wozniak consistently dedicated themselves to assisting with sessions, sometimes attending both. Isabella Curcio, Ava Farina, Chloe Dobosh, and Ella Sheehan, along with approximately six other team members, also contribute by volunteering for at least one session.
The clinic sessions catered to different age groups, with the 6-10-year-olds participating from 12:45 to 2:15, followed by the 10-16-year-olds from 2:30 to 3:45. The girls not only provided instruction on hitting and fielding techniques but also shared insights into the high school softball experience, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication. Through engaging drills and activities, they aimed to ignite enthusiasm for the sport among the young athletes.