Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Hometown Happenings

Ask any former high school athlete about their school days and it’s likely that many of their best memories came from the time they spent on a field, court, mat, or other venue. Whether they were average or exceptional it’s likely that being part of a team provided memories that have or will last a lifetime. The goal of the Ocean/Monmouth Challenger Sports League is to give handicapped students the same opportunities in which they can put on a uniform with their school colors and compete in sports like soccer, flag football, basketball and baseball. Not only that but they will be helped out by “buddies” who are varsity student-athletes from the respective schools who will act as coaches and mentors to the challenged athletes.

16 High Schools in Ocean County have made the commitment to this program which will begin its first full year this fall. For it to succeed it will take money and to that end a golf outing will be held next Monday (July 14) at Woodlake Country Club in Lakewood. The event begins with lunch around noon and will conclude with dinner and there are some last minute openings for golfers and sponsors. For information you can call Golf Committee Chairman Dennis Filippone, the Principal at Brick Township High School at (732) 262-2500.

Another event on tap for next Monday is Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County’s Annual Summer Cocktail Reception. This year’s theme is an “Evening with the Stars” and will feature a cocktail reception at the Crystal Point Yacht Club in Point Pleasant beginning at 6pm. Among those expected to be on hand are former NFL player and current broadcaster Tony Siragusa, ex-Jet great Joe Klecko, Philadelphia Flyers veteran and Ocean County resident Jim Dowd and Court TV host Jack Ford. The fundraiser is sponsored by OceanFirst Bank, Paul Barlo & Associates and Abatare Builders. For tickets and additional information call BBBSOC at (732) 905-5349.

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