VSS Students Welcome NY Giant Osi Umenyiora

to Annual Sports Awards Dinner

Vincent Smith students rolled out the red carpet for New York Giant Osi Umenyiora who joined them at the school’s annual Sports Awards Dinner at the Swan Club. Everyone in attendance promised the linebacker to keep his secret that despite how hard he hits on Sundays, when it comes to kids, he’s a real softy.

Mr. Umenyiora was not caught up in the trappings of success that come with being a Super Bowl champion and a pro-bowler. He was kind, funny, intelligent and extremely patient as he signed well over 100 footballs; was photographed with almost everyone in attendance; gave a keynote speech; and took the time to talk to several students one-on-one.

“The hardest part of playing in the NFL is not the physical part,” said Mr. Umenyiora. “It’s the mental challenge of staying focused, learning the playbook and analyzing the opponent. That’s the tough part. Those are all things that working hard in school helped prepare me to do by teaching me to be organized and flexible.”

During a question and answer session, Mr. Umenyiora avoided the blitz when a Jets fan came up on his blind side to praise him for beating the “hated” Patriots. “Nobody gave us a chance to win the Super Bowl,” said Mr. Umenyiora. “It’s a good thing we believed in ourselves. That is really the only thing that matters. If you think you can, you might. If you think you won’t, chances are you’re right.”

Aside from meeting number 72, guests also had an opportunity to participate in a silent auction that included sports memorabilia from Bookmarx Collectibles in Roslyn Heights. A bidding war ensued for items such as an autographed Robinson Cano bat, a signed photo of Mickey Mantle, a Julius Erving jersey, a Larry Bird and Magic Johnson dual signed basketball, and baseballs signed by legends such as Yogi Berra, Hank Aaron, Sandy Koufax and Tom Seaver.

A special note of appreciation goes out to Fidelity Investments and Michael Clark, President of Institutional Products Group. Fidelity Investments and Mr. Clark have been great supporters of the school’s mission to provide students with differentiated instruction in small classes. Vincent Smith School is a place where it’s okay to learn differently. With the hard work of students, the guidance of teachers and the support of partners such as Fidelity, more than 86% of our graduating class are going on to college.

(Osi and Seniors) Caption: NY Giant Osi Umenyiora (far right) poses with Vincent Smith School senior athletes and Athletic Director John Dreska (with trophy).

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Vincent Smith School is chartered by the New York State Board of Regents and is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools. Vincent Smith School is a non-profit corporation and is open to all without regard to race, creed or national origin.