Derby/Shelton Rotary Club2008 Annual Football Luncheon Honors Valley Classic
The Derby/Shelton Rotary Club celebrated one of its oldest traditions on November 25 when it played host to the senior members of the Derby and Shelton football teams and cheerleading squads at its annual Thanksgiving day Football Luncheon. The event was held at the Russian Lodge in Shelton. The event has been around for decades in one form or another, but has been hosted exclusively by the Rotary Club for more than 25 years.
For the first time in years, the game has no bearing on a league championship, a top 10 ranking or a state title. However, that will not diminish the competitiveness or sense of pride that is part of the traditional rivalry. Shelton enters this year's game, which will be played at Shelton's Finn Stadium, with a record of 7-3. Derby is 3-7, but has won 2 of its last 3 games. Shelton currently has a 5 game winning streak in the series. Derby last won in 2002 by a score of 13-12.
The highlight of the lunch came when Jim Norman and Mike DeFelice, former players at Derby and Shelton High respectively, addressed the audience and shared both their memories of the game and the strong sense of pride that they derived from their participation. Both former players are now coaching the freshmen football teams at their school.
The coaches, Carmen DiCenso of Derby and Jeff Roy of Shelton, summarized their seasons and introduced the senior members of their squads in attendance. The Athletic Directors of both schools, John Niski of Shelton and Joe Orazietti of Derby, were also present and both briefly spoke about the players chosen by their schools to be recognized by the Great American Rivalry program as Hall of Fame members. Orazietti announced that "Buddy" Amendola is the Derby choice and Niski said that Mel Denniger, Shelton's first All State Player and founder of the city's Pop Warner program would be Shelton's choice. Other dignitaries on hand for this year's luncheon included Mayors Mark Lauretti of Shelton and Anthony Staffieri of Derby. Shelton School Assistant Superintendent Lorraine Rossner was present as was new SHS Headmaster Beth Smith. Derby's new educational leaders, Superintendent Stephen Tracy and DHS Principal Fran Thompson were also in attendance for the first time.
Rotary member, Steve Balog - a former Shelton High football star himself, coordinated the program for the day and has done so for many years. Thanks Steve for another great job! |