Hampden Bank Foundation assists middle school sports

Date: 11/4/2008

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor



SPRINGFIELD Middle school sports, missing from the city's public schools since 1997, are making comeback thanks to volunteers' efforts and donations from area businesses.

Last Week, Mayor Domenic Sarno and School Superintendent Dr. Alan Ingram accepted a $20,000 challenge grant from Hampden Bank that would help fund middle school sports. The presentation of the grant was made on the playing field of Duggan Middle School with students from Duggan and Kiley Middle School competing in a soccer game in the background.

Sarno said, that middle school sports are "near and dear to his heart' and he hoped Hampden Bank's donation will spur other businesses to show support for the program.

The challenge grant will contribute a dollar for every two dollars raised ion the community up to a total of a $20,00 donation.

Thomas Burton, president of Hampden Bank, said when he learned of the need he looked the charitable foundation the bank has established as a way to help solve the problem.

The School Department's athletic director, Michael Martin, said the soccer program costs between $40,000 and $50,000. Many volunteers from the School Department acting as coaches are supporting the program, which make it possible, he added.

The Hampden County Sheriff's Department provided discounted stenciling of team names and number son shirts and First Student Bus Company has provided free transportation for students following practices.

Martin said he hopes to have the funding in place for a basketball program and perhaps a volleyball program as well. He said those sports cost less than a game such as football.

Eventually he would like to see the budget for middle school sports reinstated.

"There is a need for kids to be involved," he said. "It's very, very important."