Sticks For Soldiers Event Held At Staples Lacross Match On Saturday
On Saturday, April 23rd, 2022 Staples High School Boys Lacrosse hosted their annual Sticks For Soldiers event prior to their match against the Wilton Warriors at Staples Stadium. 
Since 2006, S4S based in Fairfield, CT, has raised funds and awareness within the Fairfield County lacrosse community about the sacrifices service men and women make to secure our freedom.
Participation in Sticks For Soldiers events creates community awareness, particularly among high school athletes, of the service and sacrifices being made by individuals, often just a few years older than themselves. The opportunity for athletes to compete and fundraise recognizes those who have sacrificed in the protection of our country’s freedoms. In 16 years, over $1 million has been raised by Sticks For Soldiers to support wounded veterans and their families.
To kick things off, the 2021 S4S awardee, US Army SFC Micah Welintukonis (retired) spoke to all 100 Staples lacrosse players at a pre-game dinner about teamwork, accountability and leadership. SFC Welintukonis, a senior medic, sustained a gunshot wound and severely injured by a suicide bomber attack while trying to rescue others. His story can be found here: https://www.sticksforsoldiers.org/2021-honoree. The video of SFC Welintukonis' 2012 rescue in Afghanistan was documented in this National Geographic documentary. https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1wncq5
On Saturday, the program program began with the Presentation of Colors by Westport Police & Fire Department Honor Guard. The National Anthem was performed by Staples Junior Madelyn Spera. First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker was joined by Westport Chief Of Police Foti Koskinas along with local community organizations. Sticks for Soldiers President Bob Vitale provided opening remarks. The Westport PAL 4th grade youth team demonstrated their skills with a scrimmage at halftime to show their support! The $5.00 admission price and money from the sale of homemade goodies will go directly to Sticks For Soldiers and the veterans it serves.
To make a donation, please visit www.sticksforsoldiers.org. For additional information please contact edward.iannone@gmail.com
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
