The history of the ‘MilkBowl'

Sparta — The first “MilkBowl” was played in 1959 to benefit a local family, the Karls, after the tragic death of their father. Karl was unique in that he sought out endless ways to give, never looking to get. That spirit fueled the beginning of the MilkBowl, and today the tradition remains strong. MilkBowl 2006 will be held at Ungerman Field, Sparta, beginning at 11 a.m. on Nov. 12. Events include the annual mascot rally, featuring the usual mascots: the cow, Chicken Dun Rite’s chicken, Valley National Bank’s Val and Lee, and, of course, the Sparta High School Spartan. A halftime kick/punt contest, a visit by a 20-foot ice cream carting cow from Turkey Hill, chili and the snack shack fare round off the MilkBowl Tricky Tray. But let’s not forget the full day of football and cheerleading. The MilkBowl, true to its origin, remains a series of benefit football games played in mid-November between the divisions of Sparta Little League Football. As was the case in 1959, the trophy remains a milking stool donated by a local farmer. Years later, the MilkBowl is still a staple in the community. To date, the efforts of the Sparta Spartans have resulted in the donation of over $37,000 to organizations and people throughout the community. Just look what has been accomplished: 1999 - Ginny’s House Ginny’s House opened its doors to children who are taken from unsafe environments, many times arriving only with the clothes they are wearing. The Spartans presented over 140 bags of items, including clothes, as well as a much-needed new phone system. 2000 - The Smile Foundation The Smile Foundation was established after the death of teenager Jeffrey Knight, a Sparta resident who died as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident on his way home from work. The Spartans were proud to present his family with his cherished jersey, along with a check in the amount of $3,000. 2001 - Rescue 5, Staten Island, N.Y. On September 11, 2001, the United States endured the worst terrorist attack in its history. Rescue 5 of Staten Island was among the first called into action. Eleven of them died during the rescue efforts. An $8,000 check was presented to surviving members of Rescue 5. 2002 - The Adam McLaughlin Fund Adam McLaughlin, a Sparta teen, fell victim to a terrible accident. Adam sustained third degree burns over 60 percent of his body. As months of agonizing procedures and rehabilitation mounted, so did the medical bills. Requiring special burn suits and extensive equipment necessary for his recovery, the Spartans once again rallied to the occasion to help one of their own. Today, Adam is thriving in part due to the $4,000 contribution from the MilkBowl, which enabled the purchase of specialized equipment. 2003 - Vinnie Ardizone Fund Vinnie Ardizone, a local business owner, was diagnosed with an aggressive and terminal form of cancer in 2003. Vinnie’s daughter, a Spartan cheerleader, participated in the very MilkBowl which generated $4,500 for her family. 2004 - Ryan Scott Quinn Memorial Scholarship Fund The children in the Sparta Little League Football and Cheerleading squad took to the field to continue the tradition and presented $9,000 to the Ryan Scott Quinn Memorial Scholarship Fund. Ryan Quinn was just 16 years old when he was killed i a car accident on his way home from school in September of 2003. Ryan participated in both youth football and baseball in Sparta. To promote Ryan’s legacy, a scholarship fund was established by his father, who has coached football in the league for over a decade. 2005 - The Caruso Family The spirit and tradition continued, as the Spartans rallied together to help the Caruso Family. Debbie Caruso, mother of Chelsea and Ryan - wife to Chris - was taken from her family in September 2005 by ovarian cancer. The Caruso children, life-long residents of Sparta, received all proceeds from the MilkBowl, over $5,000, to be placed in trust and used as necessary to meet their future commitments. As the years pass by, there is one thing that can be counted on - Spartan Pride runs deep, as does their commitment to the community around them. The MilkBowl, 50 years later, still remains the pinnacle of each season, reinforcing the concept that kids working together can truly make a difference. back. Upon arriving at Ginny’s House, each child is presented with a “my stuff” duffle bag, containing a new blanket, personal toiletries a Beanie Baby and other items necessary to facilitate every day hygiene and comfort. T back. Upon arriving at Ginny’s House, each child is presented with a “my stuff” duffle bag, containing a new blanket, personal toiletries a Beanie Baby and other items necessary to facilitate every day hygiene and comfort. T