SARASOTA, FL – Sarasota Area Sports Alliance (SASA) received funding from the Vern Ruhle Memorial Fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County to send two deserving youth to a summer baseball camp at the world-renowned IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. SASA teamed up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast (BBBS) to identify and fulfill a dream come true for two young gentleman in its Sports Buddies Program, and IMG Academy invited these youth to a week-long summer baseball camp from June 9th through the 16th for less than half of the cost of a typical camp. The experience included room and board and IMG Academy-branded Under Armour gear.
“In our ongoing effort to connect and unite the Sarasota-Bradenton sports communities, we are pleased to have collaborated with two organizations dedicated to giving back to the youth of the Sarasota-Bradenton communities,” said Tim Boyle, SASA Vice-President. “The Memorial Fund has enabled SASA to provide an invaluable opportunity for these two young gentlemen, and SASA looks forward to continue to work closely with the Community Foundation of Sarasota to provide similar opportunities to others in the near future.”
“This was such an outstanding opportunity for our two kids in the Sports Buddies program, which is designed to build mentor/mentee relationships through sports. Being able to attend IMG’s first class camps and workout in their world class facility is an experience these kids will remember forever. It was a pleasure working with Tim Boyle from SASA and IMG in making this experience happen for two deserving kids,” said Kevin Curtis, Sports Buddies Coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast.
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“The instructors help me with my stance for hitting, and I learned how to hit better. I really enjoyed the instructors; they were very nice and helpful. It was a lot of fun staying on campus and meeting new people,” said Mason, 12 year old, Vern Scholarship recipient from Manatee.
"What a great experience. The clinics were great with improving on skills and technique I already have. The best part was that everyone was there for baseball, and the facility was amazing. This will for sure be an experience I will remember for ever. I am very thankful to everyone that made this great experience happen,” said Anthony, 16 year old, Vern Scholarship recipient from Sarasota.
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The Vern Ruhle Memorial Fund was established in the name of former University of Oklahoma and Cincinnati Reds pitching Coach Vern Ruhle. The memorial fund is a permanent endowment to be used to send underprivileged youths to baseball camps. Donations can be made to:
Community Foundation of Sarasota Att: Vern Ruhle Memorial Fund, 2635 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237
The mission of the Sarasota Area Sports Alliance (SASA), a 501 (c) 3, non-profit organization, is to promote awareness and development of sports and athletes in Sarasota and Manatee counties. This mission is primarily achieved through hosting community outreach events, providing scholarships to student-athletes, and connecting donors with recipients. SASA works closely with community leaders, government agencies and local businesses to assist in building awareness of the area as a community committed to furthering sports programs locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. For more information on SASA’s upcoming events, sponsorship/donation programs, as well as membership/volunteer opportunities visit their website at www.sarasotaareasportsalliance.org.
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