Blue Devil Fans Rally for
March Madness
The Blue Devil athletic program proved once again that it has a loyal following. More than 100 supporters turned out for the Huntington Booster Club March Madness reception at Christopher's Courtyard Café last Sunday to raise money to fund the organization's initiatives, including a team grant program.
Coaches, alumni, parents and an assortment of other Big Blue supporters filled Christopher's over the course of three hours, enjoying camaraderie, refreshments and a hot buffet. The Booster Club's distinctive white trailer was parked outside the café and offered a wide variety of Huntington athletic gear
The Booster Club has contributed nearly $200,000 to the district's athletic program over the past five years and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. "It was great to see so many people showing their support for the Blue Devil athletic program," Huntington Booster Club President Tim Pillion said.
The vibe remained positive throughout last Sunday's event. The Huntington Booster Club is thriving as it goes about supporting the athletic programs at both the high school and J. Taylor Finley Middle School. A golf outing and dinner honoring retired teacher and coach Peter Sansiviero last fall raised thousands of dollars, which was promptly plowed right back into assisting coaches and athletes.
In addition to Mr. Pillion, this year's slate of officers includes Denise Goldsmith (treasurer), Jodi Biernacki (recording secretary), Christina Plant (events coordinator), Christine Beck (scholarship and fundraising), Judy Weigold (summer camps), Pam Reilly (merchandising coordinator), Steve Thompson (alumni coordinator, Nancy Forster (membership coordinator) and Karen Dwyer (grants coordinator).
Club members can be found at many athletic events, coordinating spirit nights and contests and selling food and refreshments as a service to fans and as a means of raising funds. To continue its mission, the group is hoping to attract others who would like to pitch in and help. Those willing to participate can send a message indicating their interest to Mr. Pillion at tpillion@optonline.net at their convenience for more information.
The Booster Club recently unveiled a revamped summer sports camp program, which includes 22 separate camps. "We are striving to meet the interests and needs of the community," Mr. Pillion said. Details on the camps can be found on the Huntington School District's website. Click on the School Community link, then the Booster Club tab on the left side of the screen and then select Forms & Files or click on the Athletics link and then on Summer Programs.
The Booster Club relies on an October golf outing and dinner, $20 family memberships, refreshment stand sales, summer sports camps and the March Madness event to fund its projects.