MOORE, Okla. – Thanks to a softball coach who lost a player in Plaza Towers Elementary during the Moore tornado, 9-year-old Sydney Angles’ memory will live on forever.
“Coach Landon” was a recipient for our Pay It 4ward segment some weeks ago.
One of his players, 9-year old Sydney Angle, was one of the seven children who died in Plaza Towers Elementary.
His team took its heartbreak and fueled it toward making Sydney a lasting memory by putting together fundraising softball tournaments.
The money they raised is going toward school shelters and three scholarships for college bound girls who love the sport of softball.
Three $5,500 scholarships were handed out in Moore on Wednesday.
Jamie Lowry was a recipient of one of the scholarships.
“It gives me a chance to play for something greater than myself and for Sydney. I’m going to use this to play for Sydney,” said Lowry.
Sydney’s Dad says this is just the beginning.
“We have every intention to make this a bigger and better event every year and reach out to more people,” he said.
All the girls are thrilled to be a part of Sydney’s legacy.
For some, this scholarship money will help them focus on softball instead of bills.
“I really am thankful I have this because now I can just go and enjoy college because it’s all paid for,” said scholarship recipient Kelsey Bortvit.
Kierra McFadden also said she was thrilled to be chosen.
“The opportunity to play in college is one thing, but to get the opportunity to play and not have to worry about how I am going to afford it or where I’m going to get it,” said McFadden.
Sydney’s family says this scholarship will help keep the spirit of their amazing daughter alive.
“It makes Sydney’s footprint bigger and bigger. This is just one way we’re going to be able to do it,” said Sydney’s dad.