Cyclones make annual trip to Children's Hospital
May 9, 2007
On March 14th the Oak Creek Cyclones made their annual trip to Children's Hospital in Wauwatosa, WI. This is the second time the Cyclones have taken time to visit the kids.
"This is something we looked forward to from the instant last years visit was over.", remarked Mike Velez, who organized the event, "Unfortunately, we had to reschedule due to an in-service at the hospital, so I think we lost some players being able to attend."
Players take time off of their everyday jobs to make the trip. "I think it's a worthwhile way to use a vacation day!" said Brad Delaurier with a smile.
The Cyclones were able to visit with the kids and their families both in their rooms and in a play area where some of the kids made Cyclone rookie Adam Hultman look very pedestrian when it came to a game of pool. Hultman remarked, "At first I was a little nervous how it would be seeing these kids in the hospital, you know trying to raise their spirits, but it actually went the other way." Adam continued," They were thrilled to see us and had a bunch of questions about us and ended up making us feel quite comfortable and happy to have came."
"I always look forward to this more than any other team event we do." said fourth year Cyclone Dan Greene" I still can't figure out why they want our autographs, but it really is the highlight of our year off the field. I can't imagine why this can't be a league wide event. It is such a small sacrifice to get an afternoon off of work to hang out with the kids. It's really a tough decision who gets more out of this, the kids or us. Either way, I want to plan the next visit before we get to the parking lot, the two hours goes way too fast!"
John Saharsky, another Cyclone rookie commented," The parents of the children are very thankful that others have taken time out to visit with their children and break up an often long, trying day. Just the time we spend handing out these little toy footballs and playing with the kids recharges the parents and gives them a much needed respite, I imagine."
In their brief history in the IFL the Cyclones have demonstrated a community minded approach to their charitable efforts.
Greene said, "Being named the league's franchise of the year in 2005 was and is still a big deal to us as a team. I think there is a place and responsibility for every team in this league to do something off the gridiron that benefits someone other than themselves. Every event doesn't need to be a fundraiser."
The Cyclones have organized or participated in such events as a football game on their bye week to benefit inner city kids in Milwaukee, held a softball tournament in conjunction with the Salvation Army, and are planning to volunteer and walk to benefit the Next Door Foundation on Saturday May 5th. This is a walk through the inner city to raise money for early childhood education in Milwaukee.
Kelly Bokhari, team owner, added, "Events like these are very beneificial to put out our product as a league, not just our team, and it's a great chance to network with such giants in the community as Harley-Davidson and others."