Wrestlers visit residents
at Newark Manor

When Dave Roman was in high school, his wrestling coach insisted team members visit residents in a Rochester area nursing home once each year. Roman is the Newark High School varsity and junior varsity wrestling coach. He is also a history teacher, currently on leave from his post. He remembers the experience of interacting with the elderly. For him, it was so positive that he asked his varsity and JV team members to do likewise.

December 29, he and 18 Newark wrestlers had lunch with residents at the Newark Manor Nursing Home.

They were joined by assistant wrestling coaches, Ryan Phelps, a history and government teacher, and Rick Lembo, Roman's wrestling coach at Cardinal Mooney High School.

'It was a very positive experience,' Roman said, noting that during their three-hour visitation, they enjoyed lunch with the residents and shared stories about each other's lives, played cards and more.

'It was great. I think we bridged some generation gaps. I think some of these older folks, after spending time with team members, think there is some hope for the future,' Roman said. 'And I think it put a lot of things in perspective for team members. They could see how short life is and the importance of what they are doing with their lives and the need to achieve and do their best now.'

The residents expressed gratitude for the visit. 'I think they would have us come every week if we could,' Roman added. 'I think the kids would like to go back.'

Wrestling team captain Tom Parcero, a senior, and Alex Avery, a junior, shared similar sentiments. 'It was actually a lot of fun,' said Parcero. 'We got into a lot of good conversations and heard people's stories. They thanked us for coming. It felt great to do something nice for these people. They've probably done a lot of nice things in their lives for others. I'd like to go back. It was a good time. I thought it was a lot of fun.'

Avery said, 'One lady I talked with was 95. I had a great conversation with her. She told me all about her life. I would look forward to going back and having lunch with the residents again.'

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