United Way of Morris County Events
Past Events

"Hometown Huddle" Brings NY Jets and Local Kids Together Teens
New York Jets Making a Difference for Morris
County Youth
Tuesday, October 9, 2007

There was a general feeling of celebration on Tuesday, October 9, 2007 as local kids and teens from Morristown Neighborhood House welcomed players from the New York Jets to the grand opening ceremony for their newly renovated gymnasium.  However, this wasn't your typical ribbon-cutting ceremony.  Neighborhood House's grammar school kicked off the festivities with a cheer they created especially to welcome the Jets to Morristown.  Next, local kids and Jets players christened the new gymnasium floor with a game of flag football.

"It's the most fun I've had since retiring," said Dave Szott who retired from the Jets' offensive line in 2004.  Other Jets players who attended were tight end James Dearth, defensive back Eric Smith, defensive lineman Sione Pouha, linebacker David Harris, guard Jacob Bender and this year's number one draft choice, Darrelle Revis.

Prior to putting their flag football skills to the test, Jets players rolled up their sleeves and grabbed the green paint to put the finishing touches on the gymnasium walls.  The finished gym is painted green and white to permanently honor the incredible contribution from the Jets.

The only time during the entire afternoon that the gym fell silent was to listen to Kiana Davis, a student from the NJ After 3 program, sing the National Anthem. 

The Jets, in coordination with United Way of Morris County, the Realogy Corp. and Burgdorff Realtors ERA, helped complete $85,000 worth of renovations to the Morristown Neighborhood House.   This new gymnasium will provide thousands of local kids and teens with a safe place to play sports.