NEW ROCHELLE — Melissa Myers (26) led the way for the Glenville, NY based Jason Morris Judo Center (JMJC) by winning two golds at the NY State Judo Championships held at the Salesian High School in New Rochelle on Nov. 7. Myers went undefeated in the 70kg and 78kg categories. Kell Berliner (27) was also a double medalist, capturing a gold in the 100kg division and a silver in the 90kg weight class, going a total 7-1 on the day. Dani and Randi Morris (11) picked up silver medals in their respective divisions. Dani’s medal came in the 11-12yrs. +52kg weight class and Randi won hers in the 11-12yrs. 47kg category. To close out the NY State Championships the president, Wisler Jaques, presented JMJC owner and coach, Teri Takemori, the NY State “Coach of the Year” award for 2021. 

SCHUYLERVILLE — Schuylerville defeated Voorheesville in the second round of playoffs, keeping Voorheesville off the board with 48-0 final score. 

The first and fourth quarter were scoreless for the Black Horses. In the second quarter: O. Sherman scored on 21 yd. TD and the 2pt. conversion was completed by O. Sherman to L. Cumm, L. Sherman scored on a 4 yd. TD and completed the 2 pt. conversion, L. Sherman scored again on an 18 yd. TD and the 2 pt. conversion was completed by R. Dow, and O. Sherman threw a 22 yd. TD pass to Dow and the 2 pt. conversion was completed by O. Sherman. 

In the third quarter, Z. Bowen scored on an 8 yd. TD and the 2 pt. conversion was completed by O. Sherman. To round off their scoring, M. Flanders scored on a 23 yd. TD and the 2 pt. conversion was completed by O. Sherman to S. Stiassney. 

Schuylerville had a total of 431 yards, 287 of them rushing. Top rushers for the Black Horses were L. Sherman with 11 carries for 101 yds. and 2 TDs, Flanders with 7 carries for 63 yds. and 1 TD, and O. Sherman with 6 carries for 57 yds. and 1 TD. Passing, O. Sherman was 8 for 15 for 144 yds. and 1 TD. 

Receiving, Dow caught 3 passes for 63 yds. and 1 TD, O. Bolduc caught 3 passes for 49 yds., Cumm caught 1 pass for 23 yds, and Bowen caught 2 passes for 9 yds. 

On defense, C. Patrick, A. Prouty, Bowen, and J. McGarrahan all recorded sacs, with N. Abruscato recording 2. A. Luzadis and McGarrahan had a fumble recovery each. 

Voorheesville had 136 total yards. Top rushers were Tomlin with 20 carries for 69 yds. and Conley with 8 carries for 44 yds. On defense, Clark had two fumble recoveries. 

Schuylerville advances to play Fonda-Fultonville on Friday, Nov. 12 in the Section 2 Class C Finals. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Tuesday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. Skidmore College Men’s Basketball Team plays host to the Potsdam Bears. 

The game has an added element of excitement. Kaleb Lewis, a 2021 SSHS graduate, plays on the Potsdam men’s team as a guard. Kaleb started his career as a 3rd grader playing in the Saratoga Springs rec. leagues, went on to the CDYBL, then played for Saratoga Springs Freshman, JV, and Varsity teams. During his senior season for Saratoga, Kaleb displayed an all-around game: 3rd in scoring, 2nd in rebounding, and 1st in assists, steals, and blocked shots. His best outing was against Niskayuna scoring 17 points and collecting 12 rebounds while leading the team in steals and assists. 

Intro to Ice Skating 

Build your skills! From your first steps on the ice through more advanced moves, one Intro to Ice Skating program will prepare you for more specialized forms of ice skating. Classes consist of a 15 minute warmup, 30 minute group lesson, and 15 minute practice. 

For ages 3-99. Winter dates are Jan. 4 through Feb. 12. Winter times (choose one) are Tuesdays 4:45 to 6:15 p.m. or Saturdays 11:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Adults are Tuesdays 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. or Saturdays 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Location is Saratoga Springs Ice Rink, 30 Weibel Avenue. Fees are $65 for City residents and $85 for non-City residents. Fees after Dec. 31 are $90 for City residents and $110 for non-City residents. Skate rental fees are $5 per class or $25 for Punch Card (purchase through your Community Pass account and good for current session). Participants will need a mask, snow or fleece pants, warm jacket, mittens or gloves, bike/ski/hockey helmet (required for all participants); adults do not need skates. A responsible adult must accompany beginning skaters on the ice to assist with instruction. 

Coordinator is Jill Ramos, USFS Quadruple Gold Medalist, over 25 years experience. Instructors are Amanda Shelburne (Regional and National Coach, PSA Master Rated, over 40 years experience), Pat Kenkel (Regional and National Coach, over 35 years experience), Kelsey Clechenko (over 7 years experience), Gwen Craig (over 6 years experience), and Mary Magnus (US Speed Skating Coach, nationally ranked speed skater).   

Boxing 

This non-contact clinic will teach proper boxing technique and conditioning. Light contact will be available for those who want to take it to the next level. Full safety equipment and coaches approval required. 

For ages 8-15. Runs from Feb. 21 to Feb. 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Saratoga Youth Boxing Gym (Weibel Avenue Ice Rink, 30 Weibel Avenue). Fees are $55 for City residents and $65 for non-City residents. Fees after Feb. 15 are $80 for City residents and $90 for non-City residents; t-shit included. Participants will need a mask, sneakers, and water. Coordinator is Saratoga Youth Boxing. 

Pickleball Workshops 

Mark your calendar for another round of pickleball workshops on Tuesdays, Nov. 16. The Rec Center will be offering a Beginner, Adv. Beginner, and combination Beginner/Adv. Beginner class. Focus will be on players who are new to the game or have some experience playing the game. You will learn the fundamentals and technique for dink shots, volleys, serve and return. You will also learn what is involved in playing a match including scoring, positioning, and strategy, Those with some experience will learn how to build on skills already learned and how to improve your game strategy. 

For ages 18+ (Beginner and Adv. Beginner), 16+ (Beginner/Adv. Beginner). Beginner will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Adv. Beginner will be from 12 to 2 p.m. Beginner/Adv. Beginner will be from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Location is the Rec Center (15 Vanderbilt Avenue). Fees are $45 for City residents and $65 for non-City residents. Fees after Nov. 14 are $70 for City residents and $90 for non-City residents. Participants will need a mask, paddle, sneakers, and water. Coordinator is Ken Henderson, Traveling Pickleball Pros. 

Volleyball 

Serve up your best! The volleyball program is starting the new year off with an expanded age range and enhanced programming. Two sessions will be offered, one for 7-11 year olds and another for 12-16 year olds. The program for 7-11 year olds will focus on skill development, while the program for 12-16 year olds will combine skill development with game play. 

Runs from Jan. 5 through Feb. 9 at the Rec Center (15 Vanderbilt Avenue). Ages 7-11 will play Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and ages 12-16 will play from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. Fees are $55 for City residents and $65 for non-City residents. Fees after Dec. 28 are $80 for City residents and $90 for non-City residents; t-shirt included. Players will need a mask, sneakers, and water. Coordinator is Willie Davis, USA Volleyball Sanctioned Coach. 

Contact the Recreation Department at 518-587-3550 x2300 or recreservations@saratoga-springs.org with questions. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Varsity Boys Volleyball held their banquet on Nov. 7. Seniors Zach Bell and Brendan Young were the recipients of the 1st annual scholarship award from the DiFusco Family Foundation Trust. Brendan will be playing in the exceptional senior game. Zach is a 1st Team Suburban Council All-Star and an exceptional senior game participant. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge No. 161 will hold its annual Hoop Shoot basketball free throw shooting competition on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue, Saratoga Springs. 

This event is free and open to boys and girls ages 8-13. Boys and girls will be divided into separate divisions and by age group of 8-9 year olds, 10-11 year olds, and 12-13 year olds. Participants’ eligibility will be determined as of their age on April 1, 2022. Pre-registration is not required. 

Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in all age groups in both divisions. Local winners will advance to the District Championship, and have the opportunity to advance to Regional, State, and National Championship competitions. All national champions will be enshrined in the National Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA. 

For more information, contact Saratoga-Wilton Elks Hoop Shoot Director Steve Dorsey at 518-369-1985. 

SOUTH GLENS FALLS — The Mike Nolan 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run/Obstacle Course was held at the South Glens Falls High School on Sunday, Nov. 7; named after Mike Nolan, a longtime teacher and coach who passed away in 2010. Mike’s words, “No Excuses – Do the Work” – continue to drive many students in the district to do their best, giving their best. Money raised benefits the South Glens Falls Faculty Association Scholarship Fund; each year a minimum of six students are chosen to receive a two-year scholarship. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On. Nov. 20, the Saratoga Springs Firefighters will be hosting the Saratoga Springs Police PBA in their annual Holiday Hockey Classic. The game will be held at the Weibel Ice Rink in Saratoga Springs with doors opening at 6 p.m. This game is played to benefit the Franklin Community Center in Saratoga Springs. The cost of admission is free with any donation of a new and unwrapped toy that will be distributed by the Franklin Community Center with the goal of providing the opportunity that every child in the local area can wake up Christmas morning and find a present under the tree. 

This game has been responsible for hundreds of toys that have been collected and donated in recent times. Prior to last year’s game being cancelled because of COVID, the toys donated have increased every year, with the goal to continue that increased amount of donations collected this year. In addition to the toys collected the night of the game, toy collection boxes have been set up at the Lake Ave firehouse, West Ave firehouse, Saratoga Springs Police Department, Kings Tavern, and Panza’s on the Lake. Donations will be accepted at those locations until the day of the game. 

In addition to the toy collection, there will be raffle items available the night of the game from various sponsors with the goal of raising additional cash donations that will go directly to the Franklin Community Center in addition to the toy donations.

Any additional questions or information requested in regards to the Holiday Hockey Classic game or toy collection, please contact Chris Stewart at either 518-338-2664 or ssfd159@yahoo.com. 

Winter Program Registration Information 

Facemasks are to be worn by everyone who enters the Recreation Facilities, regardless of vaccination status. Facemasks are to be worn appropriately (over the nose and mouth) at all times while inside a Recreation Facility unless players are unable to tolerate a face covering for physical activity (e.g. practicing, playing); provided, however, that coaches, trainers, and other individuals who are not directly engaged in physical activity are required to wear a face covering. Upon leaving the activity area for any reason, the facemask must again be appropriately worn. 

Tiny Basketball (Parent/Child Program) 

The Tiny B’Ball Co-Ed Program introduces participants to the fun and excitement of basketball through games and activities.

This program is for ages 3-5. Winter session is from Jan. 8 to Feb. 12, Saturdays from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at the Rec Center. Fees per session are $55 for City residents and $65 for non-City residents. Fees after Jan. 3 are $80 for City residents and $90 for non-City residents. Participants need a mask, sneakers, and water. Coordinators are Wesley Clark and George Parker. 

Intro to Basketball

Intro Co-Ed Program teaches basketball fundamentals and introduces participants to team play in a fun and positive environment. 

This program is for grades K-1. Winter session is from Jan. 8 to Feb. 12, Saturdays from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the Rec Center. Fees per session are $60 for City residents and $80 for non-City residents. Fees after Jan. 3 are $85 for City residents and $105 for non-City residents. Players will need a mask, sneakers, and water. Coordinators are Ron Lewis and Athena Ryan. 

Girls and Boys Basketball Leagues 

Girls and Boys Leagues focus on fun, team play and sportsmanship, as well as skills development. Please be sure you are committed to the program prior to signing up. If you drop out after teams are formed, it will affect the entire team. Players are placed on a team through a draft; no requests are allowed. Grade breakdowns below are preliminary; registration numbers will dictate grade alignment. 

Girls League: For grades 2-12. Runs Nov. 6 to Feb. 12, weeknights 5:30 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Rec Center; practices and games are scheduled in one-hour slots. Grades 2-3 are Mondays/Saturdays. Grades 4-5 are Thursdays/Saturdays. Grades 6-8 are Mondays/Saturdays. Grades 9-12 varies/Saturdays. Fees are $120 for City residents and $140 for non-City residents. Players will need a mask, sneakers, and water. Coordinators are Wes Clark and George Parker. 

Boys League: For grades 2-12. Runs from Nov. 6 to Feb. 12, weeknights 5:30 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Rec Center; practices and games are scheduled in one-hour slots. Grades 2-3 are Tuesdays/Saturdays. Grades 4-5 are Thursdays/Saturdays. Grades 6-8 are Wednesdays/Saturdays. Grades 9-12 varies/Saturdays. Fees are $120 for City residents and $140 for non-City residents. Players will need a mask, sneakers, and water. Coordinators are Wes Clark and George Parker. 

Volunteer Coaches Needed for Girls &  Boys Intro to Basketball Leagues 

Join the Rec Department courtside as a volunteer coach. Two volunteer coaches are needed per team. Volunteer coaches are reimbursed 50% of the registration fee at the end of the season for the child you coach. Coaches meeting for Intro is Thursday, Jan. 6 at 6 p.m. at the Rec Center. 

Contact the Recreation Department at 518-587-3550 x2300 or recreservations@saratoga-springs.org with questions. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Following another great season of the Challenger Little League program, the first season of Challenger Soccer this fall was also a win. 

Challenger Soccer is an adaptive program in conjunction with the Saratoga Springs Recreation Department that gives players with specialized needs a place to join in and play the game of soccer in our community. The program is structured to educate the players about the game of soccer, develop the physical skills needed to play the sport, and compete against each other in a weekly game. 

Their first season of Challenger Soccer ended on Oct. 30, with their last games unfortunately being rained out. The 30 total players were divided into 4 teams that played every Saturday morning beginning Sept. 11. There are 5 parents who volunteer their time as coaches, teaching the kids the fundamentals and supervising the games. 

Special thanks goes to Rob Kelly (District Coordinator of Special Education, Maple Avenue) and John Hirliman (Administrative Director) and Wes Clark (Program Coordinator) at the Saratoga Springs Recreation Department. 

“They have been instrumental in helping to get this program off the ground,” said Paul Hebert, who heads the Challenger Soccer program. 

Hebert also wants to acknowledge the efforts of the other coaches/parents and Rec. Department staff who assist every Saturday. 

“We started this program to recognize the children, and also want to thank their parents and the folks of Saratoga,” added Hebert.

The community now gets to look forward to another fun season of Challenger Soccer next fall!