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 CastingKids Invade Disney World |
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 By Roger Trageser As cheers and applause rose from the crowds I went on a search for the Dad whose son had just captured one of the finalists position for the Eastern Region in the 2005 Casting Kids competition in Orlando Florida. Rick Roselle made no attempt to hide the tears that lay on his checks. Why would he, these were tears of pride and joy. "I’m so proud of my son" were Rick’s first words as photos were being snapped of Danny Roselle who had just won the 11-14 year old age group competition. "He’s worked and practiced very hard for this opportunity" Rick commented and with that I left him to bath in the joy that Dad’s experience at these times. Tracking down Danny presented me with an entirely different emotional display. Maybe the euphoria that most of us would outwardly express would come later but for now Danny seemed little phased by what had just happened. His calm and workman like manner that he displayed during the competition seemed to anchor his emotions even after all was said and done. Perhaps he was already looking ahead to Pittsburgh and the Championship. Maybe he was saving the outburst for the bigger arena when the finalists were presented on the big stage during weigh-in. Danny Roselle and Glenn Lucas traveled south with their families to compete in the 2005 Casting Kids Semi Finals held at the Disney Wild World of Sports Complex. The weather was beautiful the facilities were world class and the kids were jacked (come to think of it so were the adults). The festivities began on the Friday evening prior to Saturday’s competition when the contingency of competitors, family and friends were bussed to the complex for an evening cookout. Under the umbrella of a large open-air pavilion we waded through burgers, dogs and salads. Afterwards kids slammed soccer balls, kicked field goals or ran a timed obstacle course as the evening slid into darkness. When all had departed volunteers worked well into the night to set up the lanes and backdrops for Saturdays competition. As last minute instructions and assignments were being reviewed that morning I stole a moment to admire just how impressive this group of young men and women were. Less like kids and more like young adults they followed their instructions fluidly, they showed respect to their fellow competitors in both victory and defeat and they earned the respect of every adult who touched their lives that day. There are fewer times when I have felt so proud to be affiliated with our Federation and with BASS.
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