The Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich recently hosted a special Awards Night, honoring the exceptional achievements of its members across various sports and activities. The event, held at Christ Church’s Parish Hall due to ongoing construction at the Clubhouse, brought together families, friends, staff, and distinguished guests to recognize the hard work and dedication of the Club’s youth.
Omar Badr and Don Palmer. Photo: Larry Blucher.
“Awards Night is my favorite Club event,” said Don Palmer, Vice President of Programs & Youth Development. “It brings together extraordinary club members, parents, families and community leaders in celebration of great futures. It is the resounding ‘why’ as to why Boys & Girls Clubs are needed in every community giving kids positive activities after school and during the summer.”
Among the evening’s highlights were the accolades bestowed upon the talented athletes from the Barracudas Swim Team and the Travel Basketball Team. These young athletes exemplify the Club’s commitment to fostering excellence and sportsmanship.
The event was attended by a number of special guests, including Club alumni First Selectman Fred Camillo, and Police Chief Jim Heavey, as well as Selectman Lauren Rabin and Fire Chief Joe McHugh. Their presence underscored the significance of the Boys & Girls Club within the community and served as a testament to the positive impact the organization has on the lives of its members.
First Selectman Fred Camillo commended the award winners for their dedication and perseverance, emphasizing the importance of youth development programs like those offered by the Boys & Girls Club.
The Awards Night concluded with heartfelt congratulations from the Club’s staff, who work tirelessly to provide enriching experiences and opportunities for its members. Their dedication creates an environment where young people can learn, grow, and succeed.
Award Recipients
Youth of the Year — Omar Badr
Junior Youth of the Year — Yasmine Bruce
Lillian Butler Davey Education Volunteer Award — Barbara Kavanagh, Greenwich United Way’s Reading Champions
Junior Member of the Year — Ella Tineo
Community Award — Don Sylvester, Honor Guard
Junior Swimmer of the Year — Isabella Fagan
Camp Simmons Award — Joselyn Sages
Junior Boy Athlete of the Year — Kevin Garr
Junior Girl Athlete of the Year — Samantha Abzun
Joanna Schulman Teen Community Service Award — Daniella Mutis
Knuckles for Life Award — Juan Castaneda, Part-time staff member
James R. Natale Swimmer of the Year — Danii Levakin
Athlete of the Year — Alex Flook
Barracudas Swim Team Coach’s Award — Camila Castano
Barracudas Swim Team 14 under 1st place 100 Backstroke & 1st place 100 Butterfly — Carl Johnson, Jr.
Barracudas Swim Team Most Improved —Alessandro Venga
Barracudas Swim Team High Point winner 10 under 3rd place — Neville Warburton
Photo: Larry Blucher.
Mike Gerald, Athletic Coordinator at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich. Photo: Larry Blucher.
Photo: Larry Blucher.
Photo: Larry Blucher.
Photo: Larry Blucher.
Photo: Larry Blucher.
Photo: Larry Blucher.
Photo: Larry Blucher.