AP Willits Gets Special Lesson from Islanders

Representatives from the New York Islanders made a special visit to A.P. Willits Elementary School in Syosset on Jan. 7 to discuss the importance of nutrition, exercise, teamwork and bullying prevention with students. Arena hostess Dina Tsiorvas and team mascot Sparky, along with ice girl Danielle, emphasized the need for exercise and proper nutrition in each of the students’ daily routines, explaining that both play a key role in the Islanders’ ability to perform on the ice. They also talked about the need for acceptance and how teamwork is a critical component in daily life.

The benefits of teamwork were experienced firsthand when a group of three students competed against A.P. Willits Principal James Connolly and Sparky to see who could put on their goalie gear more quickly. The students learned that the team that worked together was able to complete the task much quicker than Mr. Connolly, who was not helped by Sparky.

This PTA-facilitated event served as a precursor to a schoolwide family day to be held at the March 2 Islanders game.