The Oneida Daily Dispatch (Oneida, NY)
VVS’ annual Coaches vs. Cancer Tournament
VERONA, N.Y. » For hoops lovers, Saturday at Vernon-VeronaSherrill was a dream.
Nearly 60 local basketball teams - 46 boys and 13 girls sides - took to the hardwood as part of the 2017 Officials and Coaches vs Cancer Scrimmage.
Started in 2014, the scrimmage is a fundraiser put on by the Utica Boys Basketball Board 51 and the Utica Girls Basketball Board of Officials in the ongoing fight against cancer.
Each year, the participating Section III teams raise money prior to the scrimmage before donating those funds to the American Cancer Society. Meanwhile, every official in attendance calls the games for free, donating their time for the cause.
Founder Barry VanDreason said from year to year, officials are asked to make a donation to the ACS. In 2014, he came up with the idea of officials volunteering their skills at the scrimmage so that way local student athletes could join in the fight against cancer.
“Wewanted to get the kids involved,” VanDreason said.
The Red Devils, along with the other 58 teams, got the chance to scrimmage three opponents for two 10-minute periods. Coaches used their games to not only mix and match different lineups, but also scout area opponents prior to the start of the season.
“It’s definitely good for the kids,” VVS boys basketball coach Andy Cossette said. “They get to see some different competition...different defenses. It gives the newer guys a good chance to get out and play against other opponents.”
And though coaches and officials are not always thought of as being the best of friends during live action, Saturday was an
example of sports fans of all varieties working together for a common cause.
“We both want what is best for the kids,” said Chittenango boys coach John Clancy when asked if it was strange for coaches and officials to teamup. “I don’t think it’s unusual. Most of the time we are on the same page.”
Referees benefit from the experience as well. Veteran officials were paired with younger ones as part of a practical learning experience. VanDreason explained that while officials are able to learn the basics of their craft in a traditional classroom setting, the Officials and Coaches vs Cancer Scrimmage gives themanopportunity to ply their trade in a practical setting.
For high school basketball fans, the day offered a chance to give backwhile soaking up nearly nine hours of non-stop action. Donations were collected at the door, with concessions being sold and a raffle held. All benefits will go to the Utica chapter of the American Cancer Society.
Eachyearsinceitsinception, the scrimmage has grown:
•2016 - 48 teams - $7,000 raised.
•2015 - 24 teams - $3,000 raised.
•2014 - 18 teams - $1,700 raised.
2017 also marks the first year the tournament was expanded to include girls as well.
“It’s nicethat they included the girls,” VVS girls coach Randy Thomas said. “Cancer touches everybody. The girls realize how special it is to help others.”