

Taken from The JFK Observer, Armory Track:
The annual Kennedy Catholic spring track dinner was held in the Lakeside Room on Tuesday, June 1st. Laughter permeated the room. Tears were in abundance. ‘Twas was a family affair.
As the emotion “runneth over,” athletes were honored with a cornucopia of medals, honors and plaques. Most Valuable Player Awards were bestowed upon Jessica Kendzor, Dylan Schuck and Jesse Aprile. The Most Improved Athlete Awards were awarded to Danielle Asaro and Anthony Djerdjaj.
The seniors were honored by the underclassmen in word and in gift. Sister Janet Meehan, longtime coach and longtime fan of track and field was there to wish her seniors well.
Jessica Kendzor thanked Mr. Jake Bergmeier for 4 years of genuine zeal, ardent enthusiasm, sincerity and encouragement. She noted that his discourse with her Lehigh University coach helped her to land a lucrative alumni track grant that will allow her to attend the college of her dreams. Eric DiNome complimented Coach B’s superb photography. Eric suggested that the track team members consider him as their wedding photographer. Brendan Page thanked Mr. Bergmeier for tips on running shoes and a bobbing head. Mr. B is also the authority on shoe matters for the team.
Tears flowing, Breeda Mannion thanked Coach Frank Mannion, her daddy. She gave her dad his due. She brought smiles to the crowd as she explained that thanks, in part to her dad, she WILL BE ATTENDING NAVY! In time, she will compete on the track against her longtime friend and running partner, Jessica Kendzor in the Patriot League.
Coach Elliot ‘s Top Ten once again met the controversial standards that he alone has set so high. He never fails to entertain. Jesse Aprile, however, upstaged his act, this night. Jesse stole the spotlight with a moving tribute to Coach El. In this author’s own admission, Jesse’s speech was the best that I heard in years. Coach Bergmeier hopes to acquire Jesse’s speech and frame Jesse’s words on the blog.
The Schuck family provided a DVD of season highlights put to music. Everyone enjoyed the jumps, throws, and runs. Even Coach Elliot was shocked and awed. There was a special clip about our seniors. Don Schuck caught many touching moments throughout the year and Debbie Schuck must have spent an inordinate amount of time to prepare the DVD. Many commented on the professional aspects of the DVD. Every track athlete will receive a DVD.
Finally, as an additional highlight of the night, Alex Cecere sat back and enjoyed while his brother, Hollywood-bound Zach and Stand-Up Comedian, Matt, announced this season’s Couples Awards. This year there were 2 couples. Couple #1: Michael Campobasso and Danielle Asaro. Couple #2: Danielle Asaro and Anthony Djerdjaj. Pictures are shown here so that you can cast your vote. Dial 555-1212; ask for information.
So it was. Not a dry eye in the place.