New York Elks Lodge no. 1 traveled to regional event in Islip

In my four years, that was the first time a members child had shot for our Lodge.”

John Nuzzi, grand exalted ruler of Elks Lodge no. 1

Children from the Elks Lodge sponsored Hoop Shoot traveled from the Lodge level to the District level, to now the regional level.

The regional game was held in Islip this year. Austen Chen, from the 8 to 9 age boys group, and Rylee Blyskal, from the 10 to 11 girls age group, who are two Lodge no. 1 winning shooter at the district level, traveled east for this regional event. Blyskal is the granddaughter of Elks Lodge member Steve Blyskal.

“In my four years, that was the first time a members child had shot for our Lodge,” John Nuzzi, grand exalted ruler of Elks Lodge no. 1, said in a release. “It would be great to see more members’ children or grandchildren shooting for Lodge #1.”

Nuzzi said it was an honor to attend the regional Hoop Shoot, along with Lodge members, District Deputy Brian Steckler, Lodge Sponsor Ron Hansen, and Steve Blyskal.

Rylee Blyskal bounced away with 3rd place. Chen tied in a game with the top two shooters.

“Declan Meaney from Hudson Valley District (and Chen) required a 5 shoot shot off,” Nuzzi said. “They both shoot 4/5, they required an additional shoot off. Delan Meaney shoot 4/5 once again. Then it was Austin Chen’s turn. He shot four good baskets. Everyone was up watching him shoot his 5th basket and sunk it.”

Chen won 5/5 and he had over all 30 shots. Chen will represent the Lodge in the state Hoop event in Camillus.

“I would like to thank all of Lodge #1 Hoop Shoot Committee members that were able to help, as well as those that joined me on the district level to work and help PDD Don Rood,” Nuzzi said. “Thank You to DD Brian, PDD Ron and member Steve for attending the Regionals. Next stop State Finals. Best of Luck to Austin Chen.”

— Ben Fiebert