On November 17, 2016 and again January 20, 2017, Coach Kelly Starchok and several women’s soccer players joined their efforts in support of the Gregory D Spring Foundation which strives to shine light on bullying prevention and suicide awareness programs.

The Hawks sold 50/50 tickets at the Buffalo Sabres games and a portion of the profits from both nights were funneled back into the Foundation. This marks the fourth year in a row the women’s soccer team has supported the efforts of the Spring family in their pursuit of sharing a positive message and financial scholarships to graduating seniors each year.  

“The Hilbert College family embraced our family since the tragic loss of our son in 2013.  In particular the Hilbert women’s soccer program continues to stand beside us in our unrelenting effort to spread awareness about suicide and bullying prevention, even after Julianne graduated. Our hearts today are invested in the Gregory D Spring Scholarship Fund,” said Keri L. Spring, Greg’s mother who was a former assistant soccer coach at Hilbert.

Greg’s parents, Keri and Geno Spring, and his sister Julianne are committed to encouraging and empowering students.  They look for individuals who are known for their kindness; for those who hurdle their obstacles as they demonstrate perseverance and for individuals who work hard to accomplish their best without quitting in spite of difficulties and discouragement.

The scholarship is awarded annually to graduating seniors from Allegany-Limestone, Olean, Portville or Hinsdale high schools each June.  And the number of scholarships awarded has grown each year thanks to hard work of so many people behind the scenes.

“Geno, Julianne and I are honored and blessed to have Coach Starchok and her women’s soccer team assisted our family at the Buffalo Sabres games. Every dollar made is giving an opportunity to another student to achieve their dream of pursuing higher education.”

To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be a trade school or college-bound high school senior graduating. They must be pursuing a degree or certification in a trade sector at an accredited educational institution. Other criteria also includes: academic achievements, extracurricular participation, and community activities.

“This is a cause that is extremely close to home and is important to our program.  The Spring family is forever in our hearts,” said Coach Starchok

Current high school students may apply for the Gregory D. Spring Perseverance Scholarship online through the CRCF scholarship application portal at www.cattfoundation.org/scholarships.

Donations to the Gregory D. Spring Perseverance Scholarship may be made in care of the Community Foundation at 120 North Union Street, Olean, and online at www.cattfoundation.org.

Some of the members of the women’s soccer program will hit the Key Bank Center again on Saturday March 11, 2017 volunteering to sell the 50/50 tickets when the Sabres take-on Columbus.