Often when budgets are tight, people have a tendency to dismiss the value of an athletic team. How can playing a sport prepare a student for life? Allow me to address this question based on my experience this past week.

My husband and I, Ed Siecinski, became involved with the Lake Shore Quarterback Club during the past football season. Wanting to support our son Nicholas Vario and his teammates, we participated in the Taste Fest, working directly with the players. This group of young men rose to the occasion. No grumbling. Not even that awful sighing sound that drives the parents of all teenagers crazy!  

On March 28, Ed, was taken suddenly from a brain aneurism. The support from the Lake Shore Football Program and Quarterback Club has been incredible. President, Craig Manning, presented our family with a framed memorial of Ed. At one point during the viewing, all eyes turned toward the door. Holding a football shaped arrangement were the captains of the team, followed by many, uniform clad players. Each player entered the room respectfully, heads held high, and nodded to Ed as they passed. They comforted both their teammate and myself. There was not a dry eye in the room. Bringing up the rear of the procession was their coach and mentor, Tom Iwanicki.

The knowledge gained from participating on a team cannot be obtained from a study guide. Integrity, teamwork, and empathy for others, is an intrinsic value, nurtured by this coach. If the behavior displayed by this wonderful group of young men is any indication as to their futures, we are all in good hands.  A team not only prepares you for life, but all of the unexpected “pop quizzes” along the way.

Cheryl Vario Siecinski