Although MacArthur and Division Avenue are often rivals in sports, the respect and teamwork of the coaches and parents associations reflect the overall attitude of a district where coaches and administrators put a large emphasis on sportsmanship, effort and teamwork.

These principles were on display during the recent holiday tournament hosted by MacArthur. The teams competed against each other and the cheerleaders performed together. These principles are also evident annually during homecoming festivities when the Division Avenue Band marches in the MacArthur parade, and on joint teams such as volleyball and track. However, this article is about a different kind of sportsmanship, effort and teamwork. This is about the parents who donate their time in order to raise money for the athletes in the programs. The volunteer parent associations in the Levittown School District have a history of fund raising for athletes and charitable causes. This is accomplished through the hard work and cooperation of many people, but in all cases leaders organize and motivate others. At Division Avenue, Joanne Maini and Roberta Montvilo work tirelessly to raise funds for activities and apparel for their boys. The same is true at MacArthur where Arlene Mege and Audrey Ryan have the boys looking sharp in sweatsuits and matching sneakers. Both associations also sponsor off-season activities such as camps and summer leagues. These off-season expenditures have a direct impact on the success and development of athletes. Having prizes, raffles, food and snacks available also makes the games more fun for fans.

The cooperation and sharing of ideas by the more established MacArthur program has helped the Division Avenue program get off the ground - and the success of both is a great benefit to the athletes. Please be sure to thank these hard working parents and if you can make the time, try to volunteer to help. Also note that Joanne and Roberta will be moving on when their sons graduate, and two new volunteers are needed to continue this tradition of excellence and hard work.