L-R: Jim Roncone (In hardhat,) Tim Bridges, Bob Slate, Sgt. Kevin Bishop and Team Justice associates and riders. (Photo submitted.)
SOUTHWICK – Team Justice MX is a non-profit youth mentor program founded in 2004 by Sgt. Kevin Bishop of the Southwick Police Department. Drawing on his experience as a D.A.R.E. officer, Kevin responded to the youth of Southwick by forming a motocross team that would strive to uphold community-oriented core values. This commitment eventually became the team’s motto “Integrity-Sportsmanship-Unity”. With the help of adult mentors Tim Bridges, a retired Southwick firefighter, Bob Slate, long-time citizen of Southwick, and newest member Jim Roncone of The Lane Construction Corporation (LANE), Kevin continues to improve the future of young men and women alike.
LANE believes in being a good neighbor and giving back to the community by supporting local programs. Recognizing the similarities between LANE‘s core values and mission statement of “Integrity, Honesty & Openness, Trust, Safety, Teamwork, Care for People” and the Team Justice motto, employee and Southwick resident Jim Roncone embraced the opportunity to support the cause.
The mission of Team Justice Racing is to demonstrate that “cops and kids” working together will achieve great things. The youth riders on the team will always try to do their best, strive for academic success, stay drug and alcohol free, and portray a positive image for other youth, fellow riders, and the team’s sponsors. The mentors and their families enjoy helping the team throughout the motocross season by maintaining equipment, attending team practices, handling team logistics and providing transportation to NESC events all over New England. In addition, the team benefits from local professional rider and prior team member, Chris Corey, who continues to help train the team’s riders – making them the best they can be.
The Team Justice major sponsors include the Southwick Police Association, the Southwick Fireman’s Association, MX338, and The Lane Construction Corporation. Private donations are also welcome. Checks may be made out to Team Justice Racing, Inc., and mailed to 31 Gagnon Terrace, Southwick, MA 01077. For more information about Team Justice, visit their website at www.teamjusticemx.com.
