Morton raising money for veterans at home games

Updated: June 6, 2011 10:37PM

A trip to Hawaii can be breathtaking. After all, the scenery is fodder for every printing company that’s ever produced a calendar.

But, for Roydon Richards, majestic ambience isn’t exactly what took him aback. Morton High School’s Athletic Director and head football coach was struck by the presence of those who’ve served this country.

“It just really made you open your eyes, you hear about sacrifice — but it’s another thing to see it,” he said after visiting historic Pearl Harbor this past Memorial Day weekend.

In Hawaii for one charitable event to raise money for the Japanese relief fund, sponsored by the First Baptist Church of Hammond, Richards witnessed a reunion of veterans at his hotel that included more than 100 who were amputees.

“That sacrifice doesn’t go away, it’s not like the arm grows back,” he said.

Now, back on the mainland, plans drawn up in March by Richards, his wife and Morton principal Doug Friend are coming to fruition. This time, honoring the armed forces is the theme.

Starting with the televised battle against Lowell in Week 2, all five of the home contests at Zlotnik Field will be used as a fundraising tool. Ticket prices are up from a usual $5 to $7, with $500 of each game’s proceeds going to Hessville American Legion Post 232. Part of the idea is linked to Morton’s alumni in the armed forces.

“Hey, let’s do something to honor the National Guard and all the branches of the armed services that our kids are getting into,” Richards said.

But there’s a hook to these games. Morton’s opponents, including the Red Devils on Aug. 27, will also get a $500 check to use for similar purposes in their respective communities.

“I think we looked at what is fair,” Richards said. “It might make them feel pretty darned good if they knew some that money was going to Lowell.”

It didn’t take very much to get Richards’ players on board. At the spring banquet, he spoke of Hawaii.

“They’re jacked,” he said before adding, “you could just see the chills, the hairs stand up on your neck.”

Richards wants to honor veterans related to both teams during the National Anthem at each game. Interested veterans should contact Richards at rrrichards@hammond.k12.in.us with names, rank, war, and years of service.

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