School District receives $7,500 donation from USCAA
March 30, 2022
School District receives $7,500 donation from USCAA
Presenting the donation from the athletic association were Rob York, USCAA president, and Erik Lund, USCAA vice-president. Both gentlemen expressed their appreciation for the ongoing partnership between the athletic association and the school district.
“We want to thank the school district for its overwhelming support and cooperation, utilizing the facilities to administer this program for the enrichment of our youth. It takes an army to pull off this program and we’re really thankful for our partnership with the district,” Mr. Lund said. “When I think of the school district’s three pillars of success – arts, academics and athletics – we’re proud of the role USCAA plays in developing our youth.”
Despite a decline during COVID, enrollment in youth sports has rebounded.
“When COVID hit, it had a big impact on our community. We were happy when we had the opportunity to get kids out and playing sports and we were active in doing that,” Mr. York said. “Last year, we were down 20 percent. This year we’re seeing participation up in a lot of different areas.”
Mr. York cited record participation in girls’ softball and youth wrestling, which serves boys and girls.
In addition to using several school district facilities, USCAA has also adopted the district’s logo to provide continuity within the Upper St. Clair community. Uniforms and apparel from youth sports through the high school’s varsity athletics program will now feature the same logo and color combinations.
“The school district and USCAA have a natural partnership as we both serve our community’s children and families,” Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools, said. “We must continue to leverage opportunities to support each other and, ultimately, better serve the Upper St. Clair community.”
The district will determine the best use of USCAA’s donation, which will benefit the most children. Mr. Lund and Mr. York stated that USCAA intends to make an annual donation to the school district.
In its 69th year, USCAA – an all-volunteer organization – has seen exponential growth. The organization currently offers girls and boys basketball, boys and girls soccer, boys and girls wrestling, baseball, softball as well as tackle and flag football. In total, more than 2,000 participants from ages 5 to 18 compete in USCAA activities.
