On Thursday, Aug. 25, more than 500 kids, parents and family members from the Irondequoit Vikings Football and Cheerleading program gathered at Irondequoit High School stadium for their annual Pep Rally. The Pep Rally is the culminating event of four weeks of intense practice in preparation for the upcoming season.
The event featured two guest speakers in IHS Head Football Coach Wade Bianco and County Legislator Vinnie Esposito.
Bianco complimented the Vikings program for helping the kids to learn to have passion for what they do and to enjoy playing the game
Esposito shared with the kids what youth sports meant to him and how the lessons he learned have helped him to succeed at work and in life. He challenged the kids to cherish the opportunity they have and to thank their parents for all of the support they give to the kids.
"Youth sports play such a vital role in a child's life," said Brian Sampson, President of the Vikings Program. "Our goal, whether we win every game or lose them all, is to first make the kids better people, then to be a better teammates and finally to make sure they have all the skills needed to be a success on the field. It isn't always easy, but I think we've been pretty good at it for the past few years."
For more than 40 years, the Vikings program has helped to groom future football players and cheerleaders that will bring their talents to both Irondequoit High School and East Irondequoit Eastridge. This year, more than 150 kids from 6-12 years old are participating.
The Vikings open their season this Sunday at Victor. For more information on the Vikings and to see their schedule, visit the their website at www.irondequoitvikings.com.
