During its first annual The Big Chill -- 10 and Under Benefit Meet, the Stratford YMCA (STRY) Seadogs not only provided a venue for swimmers from around the state, but also raised more than 200 canned food items for a local food pantry.  

"This was the first USA Swimming sanctioned meet sponsored by the Seadogs in quite a few years," said STRY head coach Peter Ognan. "We were grateful for the attending teams participating in the food drive portion of the meet. Also, we're very thankful for the local businesses, Shaws, Ambrosia International Bakery and Mudre's Hilltop Market, for helping us make this happen."  

As part of the meet, each participating swimmer was asked to bring a nonperishable food item to be donated to the Stratford Southend Community Center food pantry. The Shelton Seals brought the most canned items and they received a $50 gift certificate, donated by Metro Swim Shop, for their efforts. Shelton Head Coach Tom Behn accepted the certificate from Ognan.  

Other teams participating in the meet were: the Monroe Gators, SoNoCo Swim Club (New Haven), and the Ridgefield Aquatic Club.

Submitted by Joanne Lindberg