The Kent Spartans, an unlimited youth football team ages 11-14, are one of four teams in the hunt for a Pop Warner national bowl title at Orlando’s Disney World beginning December 1.
The only problem is the Spartans have just 10 days to come up with $60,480 to get 33 players and nine chaperones on a plane to Orland–or they will forfeit their games. Art Ramirez, president of the Kent County Spartans, said they considered a bus charter but found the trip would actually cost more when added to the lodging.
The need for money in such a hurry was not the result of poor planning but the unexpected and rapid ascension of the Spartans. They clobbered teams up and down the Eastern Shore—winning the Bayside Championships and the entire Eastern Division in a 34-12 route over the Brick City Lions of New Jersey this Saturday–securing a bowl title shot.
The Spartans will represent the entire east coast in their bid to be number-one in the US in their division.
Ramirez and Head Coach John Dierking packed Monday’s council meeting with a legion of parents, assistant coaches, and players requesting permission to go door-to-door in Chestertown for donations, which is normally prohibited. The request was granted.
Rameriz said he has also asked local banks and businesses for help.
It was emphasized that the team has excelled off the field too. Every player currently carries a 3.0 average or better in school and some hold 4.0 averages, according to coach Dierking.
Of the 33 players, 20 are from Chestertown, Ramirez said.
Mayor Margo Bailey and the Council approved a measure to sponsor one player at $1,440. She also promised to help get the community involved in the effort.
Rameriz said he would be asking the Kent County Commissioners for help at Tuesday’s meeting.
DCA President Nancy McGuire was at the meeting and said she would try to enlist the help of her members.
To make a donation, contact
Art Ramirez
443.480.3169
[email protected]
You can also visit the Spartan’s Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kent-County-Spartans/181217665238283
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