Community Service Part of Dodgers' Hoops Strategy

The boys basketball team displayed leadership and determination this season  on their way to an appearance in the state sectional semifinals, but it’s what they did off the court that showed what these young men are truly capable of.

In the midst of preparing for their final regular season games and the upcoming state tournament, Madison head coach Bill Librera and his team took time out to visit the Cheshire Home, a not-for-profit care facility for physically disabled adults, in Florham Park.

Part of a program started by the high school athletic department two years ago, Librera has decided to make his teams’ visits a regular occurrence, as they have volunteered four times since the start of 2010 and plan to head back once again this spring.

“It’s important for our basketball program to connect to the community that we represent,” Librera said. “I first was exposed to the Cheshire Home two years ago, and although it is so close to the high school, I had heard nothing about it. The place had great energy, and I thought both the Home and the basketball program could benefit from starting up a relationship.”

While MHS players and coaches provide Cheshire with both construction and landscaping assistance, the Dodgers volunteering doesn’t end there.

“It means a great deal to us,” said Barbara Monahan, director of fund development and public relations at Cheshire. “Many times when they come and they volunteer their time, they roll up their sleeves and help with landscaping and painting. This time we decided to make a completely interactive fun afternoon with the basketball players and our residents, who are also very young.”

The Dodgers spent the afternoon at Cheshire, sharing stories and smiles with its residents, creating a memorable afternoon for everyone involved.

“We feel that the interactions between the players and our young men and women is just so very positive,” Monahan said. “They learn a lot from each other and the time they spend with each other in companionship is of great value in itself. We love the fact that we’ve made this bond with students that are right down the block from us and frequently come and visit us. It’s a great relationship.”

 And while Librera is confident that the teams’ visits benefit the Cheshire Home, he also knows that the impact that his athletes take away from volunteering is priceless.

“Although we are the ones volunteering, we get so much out of being there,” Librera said. “It is such a great feeling to give back and to interact with people that define tenacity and resiliency. Without a doubt I believe that it has benefited us on the court.

With community and leadership a main focus of this team, Librera and his boys continue to show the community that they are not just leaders on the hardwood, but also leaders in the community.

“We represent the community that we play for,” Librera said, “I grew up in a time when high school athletes were town leaders and role models and we strive for that.”