In 2016 The Clarkston Player’s Association was founded with the mission of funding Pay-to Participate fees for football players at Clarkston High School in Clarkston, Michigan. The founding members were on Clarkston’s two-time State Championship Football team and knew first hand the positive effects of athletic participation including improved grades, health, social connections and self-esteem, and hoped to give other youth these same experiences.
In March 2020, after the sudden passing of founding member Matt Boczar, the board resolved to change the name to The Matt Boczar Foundation, carrying on his selfless spirit of helping those in need.
On our fundraising journey, we have learned that research shows that only 30% of economically challenged students play a sport because of related costs. https://ihpi.umich.edu/news/pay-play-keeping-kids-sidelines. We have also learned that there is financial help needed for student athletes at lower grade levels. To date, we have contributed $16,000 to youth involved in Clarkston sports, including several flag football players wanting to start their athletic journey. Going forward we hope to partner with youth groups in the area so that we can better identify those that could benefit from our support.
As we grow, the Board is hoping to become more inclusive and supportive of all athletes in the Clarkston community, regardless of their gender or the sport they choose to play.
We look forward to many years of growth.
If you are interested in donating, partnering or volunteering with us, please contact us at themattboczarfoundation@gmail.com.