 District titles and playoff wins could not happen without the support and commitment of many, including the Episcopal Squires Club. This service organization supports the school’s entire athletic program, providing the extra support that helps make participation in Episcopal athletics an even more rewarding experience for student athletes. Over the years, Squires members have done it all. The organization financially supports the coaches’ wish list, which has included items such as a sled for the football team, soccer goals and nets, drum corps equipment and batting helmets. But the wish list is only the beginning.
Years ago when Episcopal first established a baseball program, Squires members rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Members helped build the field, moving dirt and hammering nails. Members also built dugouts for the softball team and raised the original concession stand. “Whatever needs to be done – you organize and do it,” says longtime Squires dad Kelly Root. Root and his wife Stacy have been involved with Squires since 2009 when their oldest daughter began attending Episcopal. Root says the Episcopal Diocese stresses the importance of giving of your time and talent and Squires was the right opportunity for the Roots to do this. “It’s a family affair for us,” says Stacy, who says the experience has allowed her to get to know other Episcopal families. Lower School religion teacher and Squires faculty liaison Laura Portwood shares the Roots enthusiasm for Squires. Portwood first became involved with the organization in 2006 because she wanted to be a part of what her children were doing. Both the Roots and Portwood stress that Squires is for all Episcopal sports and all athletes. Another important role of Squires is promoting and building school and team spirit. What better way to do this, than with food? Kelly Root says Squires members cook special team meals and even host tailgating events for the entire Episcopal community. Squires has also sponsored bus trips to ensure the Knights Nation can travel with the teams for playoff action across the state. All of this is in an effort to promote school spirit and the athletes giving their all in competition. “There’s something an athlete feels and feeds off of when they know someone’s behind them,” says Portwood.  Squires is now evolving. Kelly Root says the organization is getting more involved in capital projects, which will make Squires even more valuable to the school. Expect to see a significant Squires presence in the new athletic field house, which is under construction now. Root says this type of involvement will allow the organization to have a more physical and long-term contribution to Episcopal. “Squires is a representation of how parents and coaches can work together to give our student athletes the best opportunities to succeed,” says former Athletic Director Myra Mansur. Episcopal athletics has experienced tremendous success over the years, thanks in part to the partnership of the school’s coaching staff and the supportive members of Squires. The support of the Episcopal community makes it possible for student athletes to successfully compete in multiple sports, while also excelling in the classroom. As long as there continues to be a Squire behind every Knight, that legacy of excellence with endure. Want to get involved with Episcopal athletics? Click here to learn more about Squires. Did you know that members of Squires receive free admission to all Episcopal home games? To receive this benefit and others, become a Squires member by registering here.
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