If one way of measuring success in sports is the extent to which one's own love for athletics is shared with others, then the thrill of victory will be felt at the Yale Bowl on Oct. 11. That Saturday, designated "Youth Day at the Bowl," hundreds of New Haven youngsters are expected to participate in activities before, during and after the Yale-Bucknell football game.
"Each year our department designates one of our home football games as Youth Day as a way to introduce the Greater New Haven area boys and girls to intercollegiate athletics," notes Tom Beckett, director of athletics. "There are many wonderful youth-related activities planned to make the day a memorable one for all those who attend."
As with any home game, all youth age 14 and under will be admitted free for Youth Day. Buses have been provided to several area schools bringing groups of youngsters to take part in the day's activities, which will include a 9 a.m. Pop Warner football game; 9:30 a.m. athletic sport clinics; and an 11 a.m. pass and kick competition. Also taking place before the game will be a youth fair, featuring a Disney Booth, and a cheerleading performance.
The collegiate football game will begin at 1 p.m. At half-time, school bands will perform and trophies will be presented to morning competition winners and scholar-athletes -- local schoolchildren who maintain a certain academic record. After the game, an autograph session with members of the Yale and Bucknell teams will take place.
Free admission tickets are being provided to adults who serve as chaperones for youth groups of 10 or more. To obtain tickets or for more information, contact Tim Ford, assistant director of athletics, at 432-7413.
In case of rain, "Youth Day at the Bowl" will be held Saturday, Oct. 18.