WESTFIELD – At the start of the School Committee meeting on Monday, athletic director Eileen Flaherty introduced the Westfield High School boys volleyball state champions, and their coach Tyler Wingate.
WHS Bombers Volleyball state champions and coach Tyler Wingate were recognized by the School Committee Monday. (photo by Amy Porter)
“It took a lot of hard work, and a great group of guys. I’m so proud to bring this trophy to the City of Westfield,” Wingate said.
Mayor Brian P. Sullivan said the city was tracking the progress of the games closely, and after the win, arranged for the team to be greeted by a police escort.
Team members then introduced themselves one by one to the School Committee, followed by applause.
Wingate said that five players have also been selected for the Western Mass All-Star team.
School Committee member Ramon Diaz, Jr. also congratulated the coach. “These things don’t happen without leadership,” Diaz said.
MIAA assistant director Rich Riley also appeared before the School Committee to recognize two sports teams for demonstrating the pillars of community service and for serving as role models for their fellow student athletes.
First to be honored were the Westfield Technical Academy baseball team and co-captains Alex Sparks and Nicholas Clegg for raising money for Alzheimers.
Alex Sparks told the School Committee that his grandfather’s battle with Alzheimers inspired the Westfield Tech baseball team to raise $2,000 for Alzheimers awareness. (Photo by Amy Porter)
Sparks addressed the School Committee, saying that the effort was inspired by his grandfather, who has suffered from the disease for nine years. He said the team raised $2,000 through an online donation drive, and by selling purple bracelets for $1 for Alzheimers’ awareness.
School Committee member Cynthia Sullivan, who is the director of the Southwick Council on Aging, congratulated Sparks on the program. “Fantastic job,” she said, adding that it was inspiring to see students their age getting involved in the issue.
MIAA assistant director RIch Riley recognized members and coaches of the WHS softball team for their work with the KEVS foundation.
The Westfield High School softball team was also honored by the MIAA for its work with the KEVS Foundation. Captain Nicole Graves said the team was trained in CPR and AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators), and raised $500 to purchase one for the school.
Graves said they were also working with Hampshire Regional to raise enough to purchase another AED.
Riley said the MIAA recognizes student athletes who demonstrate one of the five pillars of education, wellness, sportsmanship, leadership and community service.
