JAMESVILLE -- Hard work by parents, coaches and the athletes has paid off in the Jamesville-DeWitt School District. They have been able to raise enough money to keep this year's spring modified sports program intact.
The J-D school district says it was forced to make cuts to the modified program because of budget constraints.
In response, the Save J-D Sports group started a website and organized a special rally on December 17th, to help raise money to save the teams. The Midnight Madness pep rally helped raise the necessary $48,000.
Organizers say they're thrilled the group has met this major milestone.
"Modified sports teach kids, not only the game, but good sportsmanship, how to win well, how to lose well, so it's really important," says Eric Johnson, who helped with the fundraising.
Johnson has three children who have played modified sports in the J-D district, and now his niece, Molly Smith, wants to play modified lacrosse.
Smith, who is in 8th grade, says she's relieved the community was able to raise enough money to save spring modified sports this year.
"I think it's really great," says Smith. "It's awesome that we can all come together and save something we care about."
The work is not done for the group. Save J-D Sports now must raise money for the 2012 and 2013 seasons.
Fundraisers say they need $70,000 to cover the next two school years.
