Skidmore coach leads initiative in fight against cancer
Inspired by one of their own, area college coaches converged on the Saratoga Spa Golf Course in Saratoga Springs on Thursday, Aug. 27, to do their part in battling cancer. The coaches were among 136 golfers participating in the Teeing Off on Cancer Golf Classic, organized for the second year running by Skidmore head women's basketball coach Darren Bennett.
The event raised approximately $24,000 for Coaches vs. Cancer and the American Cancer Society, helping to fund cancer research and to raise awareness of the disease. Repeating their role as honorary co-chairs of the event were Ron and Michele Riggi, of Saratoga Springs.
The sold-out tournament welcomed area college, high school, and youth coaches as well as a range of civic and business leaders and golf enthusiasts. The colleges and universities represented included Skidmore, Union, Siena, St. Rose, Wagner, Rochester Institute of Technology, Becker, and the University at Albany (see list below).
"Coaches are a passionate and generous group of people who look for ways to help," said Bennett. "We are energized and enthusiastic about the positive momentum of this event, and we had a sensational day on Thursday."
Added Bennett, "One motivation behind organizing the tournament is to honor the lives of loved ones who have battled this ruthless disease. The organizing committee has dedicated a section of the program to celebrate the valiant efforts of those currently afflicted and to remember fondly those who have been taken from us."
While the field of golfers was sold out, the organizers encouraged all sports enthusiasts to join them at the park for the event. There were raffles, contests, silent and live auctions, and donation drop boxes available to raise money for the cause. Auction items included one-of-a-kind sports memorabilia, event tickets, dining and lodging experiences, merchandise, and gear. Informational booths and cancer screening areas provided updates on American Cancer Society initiatives.
Bennett originally conceptualized the event and put together a team of local business leaders and community organizers to make it happen. As was the case last year, the tournament was timed to take place on the Thursday before the famedTravers Stakes at the Saratoga Race Course, to take advantage of the excitement and enthusiasm rippling through the city.
College coaches scheduled to attend
Skidmore College, host institution:Darren Bennett, women's basketball
Becker College: Karen Powell, women's basketball
College of Saint Rose:John Ardizone, women's basketball
Rochester Institute of Technology:Amy B. Reed, women's basketball
Siena College:Fran and Margaret McCaffery, men's basketball; Brian Brecht, men's lacrosse
Union College:Mary Ellen Burt and Mike Smith, women's basketball; Bob Montana, men's basketball
University at Albany:Will Brown and Jeremy Friel, men's basketball; Scott Marr, men's lacrosse
Wagner College:Mike Dean, men's basketball