Fresno, CA – On a bright and sunny Saturday morning, McLane High School Football Stadium came alive with the energy and excitement of the 5th Annual “Kick It 4 A Cause” event, organized by The TROY Center. This dynamic gathering brought together individuals from across the community for a day filled with action, unity, and empowerment.
Empowering Youth Through Action: The TROY Center’s Mission
At the helm of the event stands Nicholas Butler, Chief Visionary Officer and founder of The TROY Center. Nicholas’s passion for working with youth stems from a deeply personal experience – the tragic loss of his close friend, Troy, to senseless violence. Determined to make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth, Nicholas founded The TROY Center with a mission to provide guidance, resources, and mentorship to young people in Fresno’s Central Valley. With a focus on academic excellence, athletic development, and personal growth, The TROY Center is dedicated to empowering youth and breaking the cycle of adversity.
Uniting Communities: The Power of Collaboration
The success of the “Kick It 4 A Cause” event is a testament to the power of collaboration and community involvement. Sponsors such as McClane High School, Central Valley Sports, ESP Surveying Inc., and McCormick Barstow LLC played a vital role in supporting the event and contributing to its success. Their generosity and commitment to the community underscore the importance of working together to create positive change.
A Day of Action: Highlights from the Event
As participants arrived at McLane High School Football Stadium, they were greeted with a buzz of excitement and anticipation. The day kicked off with a spirited kickball tournament, with teams of enthusiastic players taking to the field in pursuit of victory. Amidst the competitive energy, there was a sense of unity and mutual support as players cheered each other on and celebrated their achievements.
Empowering the Next Generation: Mentorship and Guidance
Throughout the day, mentors and role models from The TROY Center were on hand to provide guidance, encouragement, and support to young participants. From Chief Operating Officer Ashlie Garcia to Lead Mentors Sandra Vazquez and Jacob Rios, the TROY team worked tirelessly to ensure that every young person felt valued and empowered. Their dedication and passion for youth empowerment were evident in every interaction, inspiring attendees to reach for their dreams and strive for success.
In addition to the kickball tournament, attendees enjoyed a variety of activities and attractions, including food vendors offering delicious snacks and refreshments, live music performances by DJ D Soto of Central Valley Sports, and interactive games and activities for all ages. Vendors such as Anthony’s Tacos and Scream Ice provided tasty treats, while organizations like StretchLab and Family Healthcare Network offered valuable resources and information. The atmosphere was electric, with laughter and smiles filling the air as people came together to celebrate and support The TROY Center’s mission.
Officiating the games with professionalism and enthusiasm was the Fresno Social Sports team, ensuring fair play and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. Their dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive environment added to the success of the event and highlighted the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
Involvement of McLane High School Football Coach Andrew Pancotti
McLane High School Football Coach Andrew Pancotti lent his support to the event, recognizing the importance of empowering youth both on and off the field. As a mentor and role model to countless students, Coach Pancotti’s presence at the event underscored the significance of community engagement and leadership development among Fresno’s youth. His commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment resonated with participants and served as a source of inspiration for all in attendance.
Celebrating Success: This Year’s Event Winners
This year’s event winners, One Mob, proved their dominance once again, securing their place as champions for the second consecutive year. Their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship were evident throughout the tournament, and their victory is a testament to their hard work and determination.
The FIVE5NINE’s Involvement
The FIVE5NINE was honored to be a part of this event by providing media coverage and seeing firsthand the importance of THE TROY CENTER in the community. The opportunity to witness the impact of The TROY Center’s work on the lives of Fresno’s youth was truly inspiring, and we look forward to continuing to support their mission in the future.
A Message to Fresno’s Youth
As the day drew to a close and participants left with memories of a day filled with action, excitement, and empowerment, there is a clear message to Fresno’s youth – you are the future of our community, and your potential is limitless. Whether it’s on the sports field, in the classroom, or in your everyday lives, know that your actions and choices have the power to shape the world around you. Stay focused, stay determined, and never forget the impact you can have on those around you. The TROY Center is here to support you every step of the way, and together, we can create a brighter future for all.
To learn more about The TROY Center and how you can get involved, visit their website at http://www.troycenter.org or follow them on social media. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of Fresno’s youth and create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
