Pack the Park 3 has now come and gone, so I’ve got some final thoughts on it, what we have done well, what we can work on, and the direction we take moving forward. But first, let me thank a bunch of people, without whom, none of this would be possible.
Let’s start close to home.
My wife Audrey, who walked into this mess unaware that this would be an ongoing theme. Her willingness to not only attend these events, but put herself out front, hawking tee-shirts and raffle tickets, makes me love her all the more. I hope that she continues to see the good we can do, and in time that makes it easier. I know it’s not, and that’s why, to me it is so loving and impressive.
The staff in the Athletic Office at Kiski Area, John Petermen, his assistant Jen Bowman, John’s wife Gloria, and the janitorial staff who’s hard work “builds” the stadium atmosphere you see in pictures and when you attend. Amazing work, one and all!
Vandergrift Borough, Mayor Lenny Collini, Council members Daisha Clayton, JJ Uskuraitis, Marilee Kessler, Christine Wilson, and the borough crew, who mowed the park, set up the bleachers, and place the garbage cans. The park was beautiful last night! Local government is a thankless job. Most days I’m sure it’s a headache. Today you all deserve massive praise!
The coaching staffs.
New Kiski Area Head Coach Dakoda Fickes, who very obviously has the attention of the young athletes in his charge. They played inspired volleyball last night and I can’t wait to see how they progress as the season moves forward.
Former Head Coach, and now assistant Jodie McCartney. We have been through so much together. Having you and your wonderful family lead the way has taught me so much. You continue to be a treasured friend. I love you!
Norwin Head Coach Mary Ellen Ferragonio. You are the kind of friend that ignites a room and always makes it better with your presence. I’m so glad Pack the Park includes you and your team. It just makes so much sense on so many levels. See you again, next year, and yes, we will be switching sides from now on!
To the players from both teams, who take on risks that might not be present inside the gym. You come here, play hard, deal with the sun, the heat, the grass, and you smile, win or lose.(okay, winning is better) You are the reason we do this. In you, I see little glimpses of Ellen, her playful spirit and her competitive drive. This foundation and the events it sponsors will always focus on you, elevating you, promoting you, and giving you safe and fun places to compete. Thank you for giving your all last night!
High Tops Sports Network, Deacon Blues Photography, and Tribune Review Reporter Mike Love. Commitment to high school athletics is a labor of love. You don’t do it to make money. Like our foundation, you do it because it elevates the subject. The rush you might get from doing a good job isn’t easy to monetize, but you do it anyway. Because it’s good, it’s right, and it brings joy to others. Thank you for covering We Serve First so thoroughly and so kindly.
My family, Ellen’s family, and my friends, old and new, near and far who came out in force to support…
I cannot express how much it means. Having you all there to witness this magic, soak it all in, and help out in whatever way you did is inspirational. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
Lastly, the fans who show up, at the Park, at the gym, and way back when we were the Fluorescent Angels. You make me want to keep going. I hope it’s as fun for you as it is for me. Always feel free to ask questions, and give input. I’ll listen to all suggestions! As long as you’ll keep showing up, we will keep Packing that Park!
Why?
To me, this is a lot like introducing one friend to another. You know they feel the same way about things, but still you get nervous. Maybe they won’t like each other…
This is my friend, Volleyball.
Volleyball has given me so much. Lessons I use daily. Resilience in tough times. A sense of presence I didn’t have before I knew her/him. A chance to see the wide range of emotions, from elation to frustration, from joy to sorrow, from winning, and from loss. Volleyball is one of my favorite friends. I hope you find Her/Him as enjoyable and engaging as I do.
What’s next?
The Second Annual We Serve First All-Star Classic. December 2nd, 2023, at Kiski Area HS. Featuring the best 44 players from the class of 2024 in the Kiski Valley. Hope you’ll join us then.
I’ll bring my friend, volleyball. What a time we’ll have.
