Detroit— It’s all about kids.
That’s the guiding philosophy of the Knights of Columbus involvement with the Catholic High School League Prep Bowl since its inception some 39 years ago.
“These are our future leaders,” explained Mark Gaworecki during the early morning-to-late evening activities at Ford Field. He’s the state director of Special Events and Athletics for the K of C, whose 70,000 members are found in 415 councils across Michigan.
The Knights’ involvement is extensive, ranging from spelling bee, essay and posters contests to basketball free throw contests, and backing championship competition in football (such as the Prep Bowl), soccer (for 10-15 year-olds), track and field (the CHSL championships in the spring) and the Michigan Catholic Cross Country Meet, sponsored by Lansing Catholic Central, in the fall. The full list may be found on their website at www.mikofc.org.
Gaworecki, a member of Council 3774 in Allen Park, was a beneficiary of the Knights generosity while playing in grade school CYO and at Cabrini High School.
“We are happy to support Catholic education and the endeavors of the kids. Hopefully, they will join the K of C someday.”
Gaworecki, State Membership Director Walter Winkle, Jr., and State Program Director Paul Thorn handed out trophies and awards to the winning teams and to hundreds of winners of athletic and scholastic awards.
Among the awards presented:
- CYO Football Champions trophy to Warrem St. Ann, 36-6 victor over Bloomfield Hills St. Regis.
- Teacher Recognition awards to 60 Catholic school educators ranging from at least five years service to two individuals with 45 years: Michael Foye, at Dearborn Divine Child High School, and Frank Turk, at Livonia Ladywood High School.
- The “John Shada Scholar-Athlete Award” to Tyler Lendzion, of Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice. The award is named after the late football coach and presented to the varsity player who excels both on the field or court and in the classroom.
- The "Edith Glusac Award" to Dalton Toliver, of Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. The award is presented to the outstanding scholar-athlete in volleyball. Mrs. Glusac was a former coach and official in the Catholic League for more than 50 years.
