Monday, December 2, 2024
The Rockville Centre Titans' youth football program wrapped up its Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign in spectacular fashion with its first-ever moms’ flag football game fundraiser on Sunday, Oct. 27.
“The game was awesome,” said Dana Lozito, co-founder of the Titans. “We had five games going on simultaneously. Some of these women really came to play. They had moves. And we had spectators. The stands were full. You would have thought it was a Friday night football game.”
The unprecedented event, led by Titans moms Jessica Bifulco and Lisa Guerriero, garnered tremendous community support as the organization aimed to meet its $10,000 fundraising goal for the Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition.
While the Titans have traditionally worn pink socks throughout October to show support, this year they decided to end the month with a fundraiser benefiting the Coalition.
“Kudos to Jessica and Lisa and the women from the coalition,” Lozito said. “We wanted to directly honor the women in our community and our program. It was a really heartfelt and emotional moment.”
Combined with $1,800 raised by the Titans last year, the organization presented a check for $11,800 to the coalition. Titans coaching staff volunteered as coaches and referees for the tournament, which concluded with a post-game celebration at Centre Station.
“Everybody raved about it,” Lozito said, adding that she hopes to make the fundraiser an annual tradition.
Dana and her husband, Bill Lozito, established the volunteer-run Titans football program 10 years ago to provide young athletes, including their two sons, with a chance to play football in their hometown while learning life lessons that go beyond the field.
“Football is different from other sports,” Lozito told the Herald. “Everyone has to be doing their job and working together on every play to be successful. Those lessons help kids build resilience and teamwork, which are skills they’ll need for life.”
Laura Altman, a board member of the Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition and a former Titans mom, played a crucial role in organizing the event.
“The Titans’ efforts are about more than just football. They’re about giving back,” Peg McDonald, co-president of the Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition, said. “The moms put together a unique and fun event that truly exemplifies community spirit, and we are so grateful for their support.”
The Titans’ dedication to breast cancer awareness has been longstanding. In past years, the team has worn pink accessories and raised $1,800 from a bake sale.
This year’s Moms’ Flag Football Game represents their largest and most successful initiative yet. To learn more about the Rockville Centre Titans youth football team, visit RVCTitans.com.
