Community Service | Long Island Rebels

 

Buddy Skate 2014 was undoubtedly the largest and best event to date since its inception 12 years ago. Players from the LI Rebels, Lady Islanders, and Junior Royals turned out in force to help the visiting students. Smiles, new friends, and laughter filled the Dix Hills Ice Arena with a glow.

 I want to share a story, which I believe is a perfect encapsulation of the event as a whole: 

  Early in the evening a mother and father entered the rink with their small child who, upon seeing the swell of the crowd, worriedly clutched to his father. Volunteer players guided the parents to the skate rental area, and helped put on and tie the child’s skates; all while he still held tightly onto his father. 

This continued as they walked out to the ice surface. Holding on to dad, and with mom just inches away ,the players tried to connect with the child; talking, joking and showing him how much fun skating can be. The child watched, but would not let go of his dad.   After several minutes, Coach R skated in to see if he could help.  He got down on his knees and spoke with the child, which seemed to lessen his grip on his dad.  I don’t know what he said, but the child soon let go with one hand and reached out to Coach R. 

With one hand on dad and the other on his new friend, the child calmed down and then let go of dad completely. Coach R picked him up and started skating around mom and dad; first slowly and then much more quickly.  Then it came: the smile, which soon turned to a chuckle, and eventually laughter.  

If you watch the end of the video you will see the majic happen.

 

     The LI Rebels Midget Major team took a day out of their busy schedule to give back to the community.  Working with the Habitat for the Humanity, the team assisted in the construction of a new home on Long Islands south shore.

     The Rebels work crew consisted of Organizer Aidan Buzard, Matt Coyle, Max Gulemi, Matthew Mcguire, Micheal Nygard, Ryan Righi, Kyle Sapia, Bailey Sparacio, Connor Szambel and Joseph Werner. Early in the summer morning, the team learned about the history of Habitat for the Humanity and about the LaMarche family that would be moving into the home later this year.  Soon after, the players got a construction briefing and off they started with their task.  The Rebels Team installed insulation board throughout the home which will keep the family warm in the winter months and cool during hot summer days. As the day progressed, the team became more proficient in their task and truly made an impact on the homes construction.

    As well as working on the build, the team raised $1,200 to donate to Habitat, which also included the generosity of Malcolm Paternoster and JJ Janketic.  The team's donation will go towards materials needed for the completion of the house, and hopefully, the LaMarche family will be able to celebrate the holiday season in the warmth and protection of their new home.

    Habitat for the Humanity praised the players for their work ethic and generosity....We too are very proud of our Rebels!