Funds raised will allow youth to compete in showcase tournaments throughout Southeast this spring, summer
FROM DANIEL DYE
The Montgomery Fire boys travel basketball program, sponsored by Bell Road YMCA, is set kickoff its 2022 season with a chili cookoff that will raise funds to cover travel and program costs.
The event will be held Feb. 5 at Bell Road YMCA beginning at 10 a.m. The event is open to the public and costs $5 per person to sample chili cooked by individuals, teams and restaurants competing in the event.
“The funds raised from this event will determine how far we get to travel to tournaments,” Montgomery Fire coach James Garvin said. “We want this to be a success so our four teams get to experience playing against the best teams in the Southeast.”
Additionally, event organizers are calling on individuals, teams and restaurants to sign up to complete in the event. Costs to enter the competition are: $100 for individuals, $200 for teams and $400 for restaurants.
Prizes will be awarded in a variety of categories and will be valued between $200 and $750.
“This is a fun way to involve our community in supporting a program that includes more than 60 boys from sixth to ninth grade,” Garvin said. “Not only are we coaching a sport they love we are also teaching them to be well-rounded young men. It about much more than just basketball to the Fire coaches and volunteers.”
The team is also requesting sponsorships from the Montgomery business community. As an example, every $750 donated to the Montgomery Fire Program covers the costs of one boy for the season. Donations are fully tax deductible as the team is part of the Montgomery YMCA’s 501(c)(3) non-profit status.
“It is donations from community and business leaders that make programs affordable for youth who may not be able to participate due to socioeconomic status,” Garvin said. “Our ultimate goal is to play in a championship tournament this summer in Louisville. Funding from this event will help us achieve that goal.”
For additional information related to attending the event, signing up a team or sponsorship information, please contact Garvin at 1-334-221-8884 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org.
