On Saturday January 22nd, the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield hosted the first annual CT Statewide Floor Hockey Tournament. In choosing to get involved and give back to the Club, Jackson “Jack” Hinds, long time Club and current Keystone member, secured a sponsorship to make the event possible. Eight Clubs from across Connecticut traveled to participate.
From an early age, Jack, now attending high school, was actively involved in the Clubs various sports and recreational activities, Floor Hockey being his primary interest. “I have been coming to the Club since first grade. When I was a kid, I always looked forward to playing Floor Hockey at the Club. It was my favorite activity. I cherish those memories and wanted to provide the same excitement to young Club members across the state.” explained Jack.
Jack had approached Mike Flynn, Director of Operations at the Club, with the event idea in November. Subsequently, Jack committed to attending the Club every Thursday to practice Floor Hockey with the Club members.
“Hindsy was one of the most athletic kids we ever had at the Club. He was a gym rat from first to eighth grade here. He would be four or five years younger than the rest of the kids playing Floor Hockey and no one could handle him. Beyond that, he was just a great kid and is a wonderful young man today. He participated in a lot of statewide club events as a kid and understands the importance of meeting kids from diverse backgrounds and different communities. This was his way to give back and it was awesome,” stated Mike.
The day’s events consisted of members participating in a double elimination Floor Hockey Tournament, a Games Room Gockey Tournament, and watching professional Hockey games in the Teen Room. In obtaining a sponsorship, Jack provided the funds for lunch and t-shirts for the Tournament participants. There were close to 100 staff and Club members in attendance.
“We were grateful to have the opportunity to host another successful athletic event,” explained Will Fitzpatrick, Sports and Fitness Manager at the Club. “We were able to achieve our main goal in promoting healthy lifestyles in a fun and inviting manner. It was a wonderful way to unite Club members from all across the state, inspiring them to Be Fit, Be Healthy, and Be Great.”