Number of Participants: 160
Hours Donated: 12
Value of Time Served: $16,224
Event Type: Children & Youth
Sport: Boys Lacrosse
School: Yorktown High School
Date: June 2, 2023
Location:
Yorktown Highschool
Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights
NY
About:
Just over a year and half ago, Rob Kavovit tragically took his life. Rob was an All-American lacrosse player at both Yorktown and Syracuse. To honor Rob, his family started the 15 for Life Foundation which sheds light on persons who struggle with mental illness and depression.
The boys and girls lacrosse team approached me several months prior to the season about doing a 15 for Life Fundraiser/ Mental Awareness Day. They reached out ot local schools in Somers whose JV/Varsity came, the boys reached out to coaches who were alumni of Yorktown, currently coaching in Section 1 and knew the Kavovit family.
We had one event on two different days where communities from across Section 1 not only learned about the great accomplishments of a great athlete but more importantly learned that there are always people to turn to when you aren’t feeling yourself. Both teams were able to raise thousands of dollars that will be donated to 15 for Life which will be used to provide resources to people struggling with mental illness.
Additionally the parents of Rob Kavovit and his sister were able to attend and share a little bit about Rob and the goal of the 15 for Life Foundation. The coaches were able to collaborate with many community organizations in an effort to make the day special for those who attended and the Kavovit Family.
Overall it was a very successful weekend that both teams are eager to repeat and make even better in the future. This was just the beginning of what will be a very successful partnership.
The Boys lacrosse team for the second season was also able to partner with ABLE Lacrosse which helps provide sporting opportunities for children with special needs. In this case our team provides instruction and assistance to the game of lacrosse. Members of the team and coaching staff weekly attend ABLE Lacrosse practices and provide coaching to the young athletes. I would love to say that the ABLE athletes get a lot out of it but I think it is a reciprocal relationship. During the course of the season the Boys lacrosse team traveled to Scarsdale for the first ever ABLE Challenge Game. Both teams work with the organization and this game provided the opportunity for the ABLE athletes to come and see the young men and coaches that they have been working with but more importantly our athletes to see them and place a big spotlight on the work that ABLE is doing. The turnout was wonderful and haven had the opportunity to attend, i can say it was a wonderful experience.
Submitted by Robert P. Barrett