MANCHESTER – It may not be football season but members of the Manchester Township High School football team scored some touchdowns when it comes to community service recently.
Under the direction of Head Coach Tommy Farrell, team members spent some time this summer volunteering at senior communities around the area.
These students are spending some of their summer days visiting with residents at The Haven Assisted Living Community in Manchester.
They are hosting a meet and greet, talking about Manchester football, sharing their stories, equipment and more while visiting with the residents.
The reactions have been more than favorable as residents of these senior communities get a chance to talk to the young players, hold a football and connect with them about their game.
Coach Farrell and the team have received a warm welcome in the form claps and cheers. New friendships between generations have been made during these visits.
Senior wide receiver Joe Horowitz said “it was a great experience. Seeing a smile on everyone is what it’s all about. The highlight of my day was when we passed around our equipment, and some of them even put our helmet on. I’m grateful for the opportunity that we were given to go visit the nursing home.”
Coach Farrell explained that “one of the goals of this program is to be community-involved. I was so proud of our young men for doing this. They were genuinely happy and having fun talking with the residents and playing bingo.”
“There’s no better way to help others than by spending some time with some seniors that are in our backyard. I’m proud of our team,” Coach Farrell added.
Junior linebacker Dante Mortellite remarked, “I’m just glad that I was able to give back to the community that has done so much for me. Spending time at the senior center was a real eye opening experience for me.”
“The people there were so kind and welcoming, and this experience reminded me the importance of being in touch with your community and the value of human connection. Hearing the people’s stories made me realize that life is precious and we should value every second of it,” he added.
There will be further visits to other communities ahead of their opening game which is quickly approaching in August.
