The Parks and Recreation Department’s Jimmy Deren Memorial/Bowling Buddies Program wrapped up another outstanding season with a fun-filled end of season banquet held at beautiful Sunrise Park Pavilion on May 5. Following an exciting thirty-week season at Spare Time Lanes, bowlers, volunteers, families and friends gathered together to celebrate a year filled with friendship, teamwork, sportsmanship and unforgettable memories.
The Sunrise Park Pavilion was transformed into a festive luau-themed celebration complete with music, dancing, food, awards and plenty of laughter. The beautiful spring weather made the evening even more special as everyone enjoyed a fantastic BBQ, tropical decorations, limbo contests, conga lines and dancing throughout the night.
The many accomplishments of the Bowling Buddies athletes and volunteers during the season, including their participation in Special Olympics tournaments and league play, were recognized at the banquet. Every athlete received a personalized trophy engraved with their High Game Score, while Special Partners and volunteers were also recognized for their dedication and support throughout the year.
This year’s overall league champion team was the “Huskies,” who earned the top spot among ten competitive teams. Team members included Brendan Burns, Gabe Segool, William Leroux and Diane Leroux. Special individual awards were also presented throughout the evening recognizing outstanding achievements, perseverance, sportsmanship, and high scores from the season.
Amanda Rabideau earned the Overall Female High Game Score with an impressive score of 198, while James Mark received the Overall Male High Game Score with a score of 200. Congratulations also go out to Declan Eagan, recipient of this year’s Outstanding Sportsmanship Award for demonstrating exceptional kindness, teamwork and positivity throughout the season.
Special Partner awards were also presented during the banquet. Nick Miller received the Overall Male High Game Score Special Partner Award with a tremendous score of 229, while Vanise Shea earned the Overall Female High Game Score Special Partner Award with an excellent score of 185. Bob Howe was also specially recognized with a High Game 200 Club Award after rolling a whopping score of 204 during the season.
A special thank you goes out to the many volunteers, Special Partners, and families who help make Bowling Buddies such a successful and meaningful program each year. Appreciation is also extended to Spare Time Lanes for their continued support throughout the season and to Dinn Brothers of West Springfield for their excellent trophy engraving work. Special thanks also go to Kevin Landolina for spinning all of the wonderful music throughout the evening and helping create such a fun atmosphere for everyone. Additional thanks go to Chad Kuzontkoski, Parks Superintendent at Sunrise Park, for helping ensure the park, pavilion and grills were all perfectly set and ready for the celebration. The department would also like to extend sincere appreciation to Margo and Tom Burns for their tremendous help preparing and serving the wonderful BBQ enjoyed by the group.
The evening’s banquet and festivities were made possible thanks to the efforts of many wonderful volunteers and supporters who helped create such a memorable celebration for everyone involved. It was truly a fantastic evening filled with smiles, friendship, and community spirit.
The Suffield Parks and Recreation Department is always looking for new athletes and volunteers to join the Bowling Buddies Program. If you are interested in becoming involved as a bowler, volunteer, or Special Partner for the upcoming season, please contact Donna Carney-Bastrzycki, Director of Special Programs, at dcarney@suffieldct.gov or 860-668-3862. The group also participates in many enjoyable activities and outings throughout the year.
Register for Summer Programs with the Suffield Parks and Recreation Department
Summer in Suffield is going to be unforgettable! The Suffield Parks and Recreation Department is excited to offer an incredible lineup of summer camps, community events, concerts, movies in the park, sports programs, family activities, and exciting celebrations all summer long in honor of America’s 250th. From special community gatherings and family events to Suffield Night at the Yard Goats, this summer will be filled with opportunities to celebrate our nation’s history while enjoying time together as a community.
This wide variety of programs and events are for residents of all ages. Whether you are attending a concert, enjoying a movie night under the stars, participating in a recreation program, or joining one of our many special community celebrations, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
From youth camps and recreational programs to outdoor entertainment and community-wide festivities, #SummerInSuffield is sure to be a hit and one of the most memorable summers yet!
For a complete listing of programs, events, and registration information, please visit suffieldrec.com.