Women's Lacrosse Hosts Fifth-Consecutive Christmas Magic Event

Center Moriches, NY| For the fifth consecutive year, the St. Joseph's College (L.I.) women's lacrosse team hosted its Christmas Magic event at Clayton-Huey Elementary School in Center Moriches, NY on Wednesday, December 16.

In the spirit of the holiday season, the members of the team accepted letters written to Santa from underprivileged children in the area. Each player was then tasked with purchasing and wrapping requested gifts to be anonymously presented to the children.

On the 16th at Clayton-Huey Elementary School, the team, with the help of Helen Fechter, who runs the after school program, organized and decorated the school's gymnasium in preparation for Santa's arrival.

At 5:00 PM, families began filing into the gymnasium to enjoy dinner and, one by one, the children and their parents walked to the stage to receive their bag of presents.  Members of the lacrosse team escorted the children back to their tables to open up more gifts and spend time with them.

In the end, the children were thrilled that their letters to Santa had been answered, and the SJC players were proud to have the opportunity to give back to those in need.

Since head coach Bon Vlahakis was introduced as the program's first-ever leader in 2011, he has made a habit out encouraging his team to participate in community outreach programs. The lacrosse team most recently held its fourth annual High School Lacrosse Jamboree: Recognizing and Celebrating Local Veterans back in November.

Special Note:   Charlie Russo is the Chair of the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, and is the founder and driving force behind the charitable organizations Christmas Magic, Giving Tree Camp and Every Child's Dream.