June 09, 2009
Alumnus and former member of St. John’s men’s lacrosse team
Matthew Viscusi ‘09CPS and College of Professional Studies
senior
Kathleen Yee from the women’s volleyball team were recently
invited to assist in honoring participants of Glendale's P.S. 113
Isaac Chauncey Elementary School Olympics program.
Viscusi and Yee were selected based on their distinction as
Rickard F. McSwiney Award winners at the 63rd annual St. John's
Athletics Awards Banquet held on May 4. The McSwiney award honors
one male and one female student-athlete who "best typify the St.
John's man and woman. Someone who exhibits pride in team
achievements, determination as a competitor to excel, graciousness
in victory and defeat, ability as a leader, and love and dedication
to his/her alma mater."
Speaking to a group of approximately 70 fifth graders, Viscusi
and Yee congratulated the students on their academic and athletic
achievements, then briefly shared insights into their personal
experiences as Division-I student-athletes.
To sum up the entire experience, Matthew Viscusi describes it as
"inspirational." "It was an honor to receive such a great award and
be chosen among all the amazing student-athletes at St. John’s.
Being a member of St. John’s lacrosse team for four years really
made me appreciate all the hard work and dedication that goes into
being a part of the Red Storm athletic community. I was happy to be
able to share my experiences with students who may one day be St.
John’s student-athletes.”
They assisted the elementary school administrators in awarding
each child a ribbon and "Olympic" medal for their participation in
the program. Following the ceremony, the Red Storm student-athletes
signed autographs and spoke individually with many of the children
and the program volunteers.
The P.S. 113 Olympics is an after-school program designed to
challenge students in both individual and team settings, with a
major focus on sportsmanship, fair play, teamwork and leadership.
Academically eligible fifth graders with an interest in physical
activity were divided into teams for the year. Weekly indoor
competitions between teams involved a variety of athletic
challenges, including an obstacle course, three-legged races,
miniature golf and a basketball shooting contest. The program,
created by the P.S. 113 administration and supported by several
parent volunteers, was developed to promote a healthy and active
lifestyle by giving students an opportunity to participate in
several different sports and athletic activities.
St. John's Athletics is committed to providing all
student-athletes opportunities to learn and be successful in an
environment that promotes academic and athletic excellence. For
more information about St. John’s Athletics, please visit the Red Storm Sports web
site.