Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- There were plenty of smiles to go around Sunday at Moore Catholic’s athletic field as dozens of kids got their kicks in the last of the six-week Sunday Morning Sports Series soccer league. It was all part of the Integrated Athletic Initiative, a nonprofit organization providing free sports instruction, teams, events, and leagues for youth of all abilities, including underprivileged and special needs participants. Its mission is to build athletic skills, confidence, self-esteem and sportsmanship in a supportive, inclusive environment. About 12 years ago, co-presidents Sal Fabozzi and Anthony Passalacqua recognized a need for a league that welcomed children who might struggle to compete in sports, or compete at a high level. Their vision led to the creation of a program open to all children, regardless of ability, encouraging participation and enjoyment in sports. “This is our fourth soccer season,” Fabozzi shared on Sunday -- Championship Day -- “which was inspired by Giuseppe Deserio, Chief of Staff to Councilman David Carr.” The league is completely free and funded by Carr’s office, with volunteer support from Moore Catholic High School (which also donated space), Moore’s athletic program, the Staten Island Advance, Mike Neely and the Catholic Youth Organization, Mark’s Bake Shop, along with major sponsors like Nike and the DSNY. Additional support has come from South Shore Kiwanis, Mack Electric, EEP Law, and Nick’s Lobster House. Combined these businesses and organizations have contributed money, volunteers, equipment and instructor donations. Fabozzi explained, “Kids as young as 10 —or even younger —start to realize they may not be able to compete in sports at a high level. This league gives them an outlet, starting around age 4.” Passalacqua added, “For Sal and me, bridging the gap in sports between mainstream, special needs and underserved youth has always been a priority.” The Sunday Morning Sports Series was created to offer families a welcoming, nonjudgmental space to enjoy sports together. “We want to see kids smiling and having fun,” said Fabozzi. “We offer basketball, soccer, track, softball, baseball, bowling and flag football — and we’re planning to add golf next spring.” “We’ve had incredible support from volunteers, parents, and paras,” Passalacqua noted. “This is a safe space for kids. Since day one, we’ve welcomed around 125 children into this program. We start with basic instruction and finish with game play. Today is our Championship Day!”
