The spirit of tradizione came alive once again as the World Language Club at Gates Chili High School hosted the Whatsa Matta for You Bocce Ball Tournament fundraiser on October 17. The event brought students and staff together to raise funds for Prime Time, the all-night party that follows Senior Ball.
The bocce ball tournament holds a special place in the hearts of the Gates Chili community. This longstanding tradition was established by former Italian teacher Franca Cinelli, who dedicated three decades to teaching Italian at Gates Chili High School. Cinelli’s love for the game and her passion for fostering cultural connections made her the driving force behind this unique event.
“What was cool about [the tournament] is that it wasn’t just the kids in the Italian club playing, the whole school got involved and then the teachers too,” Cinelli recalled. “You know, people came out that wouldn’t normally come out to do things and they were very creative in getting a name for their team…and it brought around camaraderie.”
Cinelli’s retirement in 2017 put the tournament on hiatus. That is, until last year when Gates Chili alumnus and English teacher Vanessa Arena-Amesbury revived the cherished tradition. Having fond memories of playing in the tournament both as a student and a staff member, Arena-Amesbury saw an opportunity to rekindle the community’s love for bocce. The return of the bocce ball tournament was met with enthusiasm and anticipation. Nearly 20 teams of student and staff members took to the bocce courts last year, battling through three rounds of spirited competition. This year’s competition attracted an even larger number of participants, with more teams registering to join the event.
“It was great; a lot of fun,” said junior Cole G. “We’re all out here just enjoying ourselves, having friendly competitive battles.”
The resurgence of this cherished event symbolized the spirit of community and the importance of preserving beloved traditions.
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