It’s one thing to get teenagers to Staples High School by 6 a.m. — in the dead of winter, and during summer vacation.
But a few dozen Westport boys do it. They’re fueled by the goal of becoming varsity football players.
It’s another thing entirely to get their teachers to join them at dawn in July — on one of the hottest days of the year.
But that was the scene Tuesday, at Paul Lane Field.
The first-ever “Staples Teachers & Staples Football” workout was a huge hit.
Each player invited 1 or 2 favorite teachers, Twenty — of all ages, and both genders — accepted the challenge.
The morning began with a speed and agility workout. A lift in the weight room followed. Then it was back to the turf, for relay races. Athletes competed alongside the teachers they’d invited.
Waiting for the race start.
Assistant principal Pat Micinilio impressed everyone with his bench press. English instructor Brendan Giolitto quickly emerged as the leader of his team, rallying his players with excitement.
Pat Micinilio spots Cardale Jones. The starting quarterback on Ohio State’s 2014 national championship team is a member of the Staples football coaching staff.
Social studies teacher Nell Ann Lynch was the star of the football gauntlet. (No surprise: She was an NCAA Division I volleyball player).
Nell Ann Lynch, in action.
Physical education teacher Jeb Boyrer’s team captured the overall title by winning the Tic-Tac-Toe 40-yard relay.
But the highlight may have been PE instructor Jen Telford. She completed the entire workout while carrying her 1-year-old son in a baby carrier, while 2-year-old son Braeden stole the show, enthusiastically joining every activity. (A future Staples Wrecker, perhaps?)
Future Wrecker?
The morning ended with breakfast. Players and teachers talked, laughed, and continued to build relationships outside the classroom.
The special session was the brainchild of head coach Matty Jacowleff.
All winter long, during 6 a.m. lifting sessions, phys. ed. teacher Jeff Doornweerd worked out too. He is not a football coach, but he became part of the group — offering pointers, spotting players and forming friendships.
As Jacowleff — a special education teacher — walked through the Staples halls, he noticed players gravitating toward Doornweerd. Jacowleff sought an opportunity for other teachers and athletes to build similar connections.
Tuesday’s special workout was born.
“It was incredibly meaningful to see so many teachers drive back to school at 6 a.m. during their summer vacation simply to work out alongside our players,” Jacowleff says.
It was also “a powerful reminder of the care, commitment and pride our teachers have in the Staples community.”
But, Jacowleff adds, “I believe it was equally impactful for our teachers. They had the opportunity to experience our players in an environment they truly love, and to witness firsthand the culture, standards, accountability and brotherhood that define Staples football.
Special education teacher Lauren Manosh spots her son.
“It was a special morning that reminded all of us that the Staples community extends far beyond the walls of a classroom or the lines on a football field.
“I hope they walked away with a deeper understanding of why this program means so much to our players. I also hope that they weren’t too upset when they had to do up-downs for jumping offsides.”
Post-workout group photo.
Getting ready for the season. (Photos/Oliver Lynch and Danielle McGrath)
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