The Sachems FC U-13 Girls participated in the 3rd Annual Juggle-A-Thon
fundraiser, and through some hard work were able to make it a huge success.
Coach Chris French allowed the girls to pick a foundation/charity which they
wanted to help. After much thought, the girls chose The Smile Train, a terrific foundation that helps children born with
cleft lips and palates, especially those in poor, underdeveloped countries.
The girls then went around to friends, family, and neighbors in an attempt to
find sponsors. Sponsors could donate a flat rate (e.g. $20 total) or a per-juggle rate (e.g. 50 cents per juggle). All throughout
the season, the girls practiced their juggling so they were more than ready for the Juggle-A-Thon. During practice on November
8th, the girls battled through the cold and were given 15 minutes to record their best effort.
The final step was to collect money from the sponsors, after which the final
totals could be calculated. Prizes were given to the top overall juggler (Savannah Kinchen with 118 juggles), to
the girl who raised the most money (Julia Staffiere with $2,810), and to the girl who found the most sponsors (Jill Emerson
with 21 sponsors). Overall, the team was able to raise $7,470 for The Smile Train.
On the fundraiser, Coach French says, "I am so proud of the enthusiasm, effort,
and dedication that all 23 girls gave to this mission. Right from the beginning, they realized the importance of helping out
children just like them who were born into very difficult circumstances. They worked extremely hard and were determined to
make a difference in as many children's lives as possible. I am as proud of their efforts with this fundraiser as I am for
their success on the field."
Congratulations to all the girls on a wonderful effort raising money for a great
cause and thank you to everyone for their support!
