It is a sad day in Old Bridge for anyone who cares about pre-high-school football.
When Old Bridge merged its two high schools, it was difficult but it worked. The Old Bridge High School (OBHS) football team could be better than it is if these players learned how to work together at a younger level. This was a hope and dream for some Old Bridge people that almost came to fruition. This has been in the works for quite a few years. I am speaking of the merger of all Old Bridge’s Pop Warner teams. I am league secretary for the Sayre Wood South Rebels, and I am a concerned parent.
This merger has been talked about and discussed for years with many people – the mayor, the Recreation Committee and even the OBHS football coach. The positive force behind this was a man who everybody claims to know but only some people do. His name is Denis Kilduff.
Denis has been coaching young people since he graduated from high school. He actively participates on so many committees and sports leagues that I cannot begin to name them. He does this because he enjoys sports, he enjoys seeing youngsters learn sports and realizes what a positive influence sports can be in children’s lives.
Denis has been pushing for this merger for years, and this year it seemed like it might happen. He spearheads these projects because he is a wealth of knowledge for the community. I wish people would just listen to the logic instead of listening to what their “Great Aunt Mary” said that he did/said to her “Cousin Vinny.” It is hurtful to him, and, more importantly, to him, his wife and his children.
I challenge anyone who knows Denis Kilduff and knows where his heart is where the children of Old Bridge are concerned to tell anyone and everyone the truth. Denis has worked diligently to make many things possible for the children of the town.
There is no reason why any child in Old Bridge should have to leave the town to cheer or play football. We have a plethora of talent, (children and coaches). All children should play and learn together here.
There are many people in Old Bridge who have worked with, coached with, or had children coached by Denis. Please pass the word along. Do not let his work on behalf of our children be for nothing.
Kim Bell
Old Bridge