By Bradley Radu / Staff Writer 

The sound of golf clubs and conversation replaced the clatter of helmets and whistles as players and alumni came together for an event that could help promote a better future for the football program.

For players, alumni involvement represents more than funding. It reinforces the program’s identity and connects past and present teams. Alan Palmero said that support is essential to the team’s progress.

“Having alumni come back and support us at games or even sponsor parts of the program really helps,” Palmero said. “We’re turning a new page this year and taking the right steps to get back to where the program has been before.”

This renewed sense of direction reflects a broader effort to rebuild a winning culture. Players see alumni as both supporters and role models who understand the demands of the program.

Joseph Glennon, freshman quarterback, echoed similar sentiments, noting that alumni connections help demonstrate the team’s progress.

“Everybody likes to stay connected,” said Glennon. “It’s important for them to see the growth happening on campus and within the team. We’re always looking for their support to help get Valley rolling again.” Funds raised during the tournament are expected to directly benefit player development and well-being. According to Glennon, contributions will go toward equipment and improvements such as a new “refuel station,” which provides athletes with post-practice nutrition, including drinks and recovery snacks.

Team members say these resources are essential to maintaining performance and health throughout the season.

Beyond fundraising, the tournament also reinforces team culture. Players consistently pointed to relationships with teammates as their most meaningful experiences.

“Just connecting with all the guys and building those bonds has been my favorite part,” Palmero said.

Glennon added that the time spent together off the field is just as impactful as competition.

“We’re together all the time, so we become best friends. It’s not just football, it’s everything we do outside of it, too,” Glennon said.

Sophomore Royce Rosen Dennekin highlighted another key aspect of alumni engagement: mentorship. He described alumni as a source of knowledge and perspective for current athletes.

“They’ve already put in the work and know what it takes to be part of a great team,” said Rosen Dennekin. “There’s a level of wisdom they bring that really helps us as we try to build something strong.”

Now in its second year, the golf tournament continues to grow as a cornerstone event for the football program. Its purpose extends beyond raising money, focusing instead on long-term sustainability and connection.

By bringing together past and present members of the program, the event fosters a unified vision for the future. As players work to reestablish a competitive standard, alumni support remains a key factor in that process.

With continued engagement and investment, the team hopes to transform its efforts into a consistently successful and competitive program once again.