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Our September/October Featured Sponsor is the Virginia Federation Youth Sponsors
by Pete Herbst
(Who is Pete Herbst & what
else has he written?)
When the Virginia Bass Federation’s trailer pulls into the tournament parking lot this year, you will notice that the trailer displays some new local sponsor logos alongside other longtime federation sponsors.
For the first time in 2003, the Virginia federation is promoting the sponsors of its youth programs. The youth programs are very important to the federation and the cost of running these programs has increased significantly over the past couple of years. The money received from our youth sponsors helps defray the cost of these programs.
The federation has several youth programs and the programs are listed below.
| For more information and details on these programs, please contact our youth director, John Britton by e-mailing him at jjbrittjr@hotmail.com or calling him in the evenings at (540) 364-3502. |
The youth sponsors receive publicity for their donations by getting their names and websites on the tournament trailer. They are also listed as sponsors on this website and in Tightlines.
Besides being important to B.A.S.S. and the Virginia B.A.S.S. Federation, youth programs are also very important to many large companies such as Genmar. Genmar is giving away lots of kids’ stuff every day at the upcoming FLW Jacobs Cup Tournament, which is being held on September 10-13, 2003 in Richmond, Virginia.
With special thanks for their support, the Virginia Federation Youth Program sponsors are highlighted below.
Beavers Marine
(Champion, Skeeter, Procraft, Fisher, DuraCraft, and G3 boats)Kenny Brown, one of Beavers’ pro-staff, is heavily involved with youth and serves as youth director for Region One. Beavers Marine has been a longtime supporter of the youth program in the Maryland Federation and was excited when the Virginia Federation stepped up time and effort dedicated to youth programs. Charlie would like to see bass clubs establish a youth club in the area." Regular competition in youth tournaments is what keeps the kids interested in fishing, just like their dads," Charlie says.
Best Western
Brian’s Steak House
They sponsor the youth program because they feel the youth and the family are very important. With all the things the youth are exposed to these days, Ronnie feels getting a youngster out on the water is an excellent way for kids to spend a day. Ronnie likes helping the youth program because he appreciates that the federation brings a lot of business his way. "When they win, it’s exciting for the kids to get up on the platform in front of everyone," he said.
L&B Props
(boat propeller performance and repair)L&B has been a longtime supporter of the federation and immediately became a youth sponsor when the federation solicited them. Both Larry and Joan have noticed that the average age of tournament bass anglers seems to be increasing. By investing their money in kids’ programs, they hope to decrease the average age of tournament anglers and increase numbers of fishing enthusiasts overall. Larry and Joan also serve as mentors to several kids and enjoy getting out to fish and hunt with them.
Mare Marine
(Ranger, Tracker, Nitro, and Express Boats)Brian served as president of the Maryland federation and the youth program has always been his main focus. Brian is also involved with the Nation’s Capital B.A.S.S. Federation, which recently held a major charity event for inner-city school children that raised $239,000. Brian enjoys teaching urban youth about the outdoors and says he always comes home feeling good after helping out kids. "The excitement of seeing a kid catch a fish puts a smile on my face," Brian said. Mare Marine pro-staff are encouraged to be involved with youth events and Brian sponsors several events at local stores.
Motor Mile Outdoors
(Ranger, Lowe, Mariah and Glastron Boats)"I love helping kids and helping the sport grow to carry on the tradition," Todd said. He feels by supporting youth programs that he can help kids stay out of trouble and help them to build self-respect by learning to appreciate the outdoors. He’s also a big supporter of getting kids out on the water to learn boat safety at an early age. He realizes that not everyone is fortunate enough to grow up near rivers and lakes and that getting city kids out on boats helps the industry. All of Motor Mile Outdoors pro-staff are encouraged to help out on youth programs. Todd says they all enjoy it very much.
Pops Marine
(Triton, Basscat and Bullet boats)Richard has noticed that the Virginia federation has always been very supportive of youth. He appreciates that and wants to give something back to the federation for their support. Richard has also noticed how many sports are changing and gearing towards youth. Richard believes golfing is a prime example. "Years ago it was frowned upon to see kids on golf courses; now kids are encouraged and welcomed on courses. There are so many activities for kids these days. We have to go after youth and build their interest in fishing," Richard said. He is very excited that Virginia is actively supporting youth programs and community service.
Seaport Marine
(Skeeter, G3 bass boats)"The youth program keeps the bass fishing tradition alive through generations, and gets youth involved in a sport that is less stressful then other sporting events," Lori and Robert said. They believe fishing helps children become more aware of their environment. Lori clearly points out, "It’s an activity that parents can participate in with their children rather than just watching from the sidelines."
Wilson Brothers BBQ
"As a practical matter for parents, fishing does not cost a whole lot for families. It’s a good hobby, and may even grow into a paying profession for them," Phyllis said. The youth program keeps them "off the streets and out of trouble." There’s not a lot for kids to do sometimes in a rural environment so Phyllis believes helping to get them involved in fishing is a good thing.
Please support the companies that support us.
| If you would like to become a youth sponsor, please contact Roger Fitchett by e-mailing him at RogerFitchett@cox.net or calling him at (757) 428-4280 |
Copyright 2003 Pete Herbst All Rights Reserved
pete@vabass.com