Why is it that only GREAT athletes get support, recognition and scholarships? They don’t really need it, they’re GREAT!
What about all the athletes out there who suck? I don’t really mean “suck,” that’s a little harsh. But you know what I mean… Who’s doing anything for them? You know, the ones I’m talking about: The ones who go to every practice, get their heads bashed in, then leap back up to get ready for more. The ones who workout as often as they can but never seem to get that rippling six-pack. The ones who awake at dawn, step out into the heat and push themselves to run, only to be passed by the little old ladies scooting right by on the jogging trail.
Well finally, someone is stepping in to help! And he’s a former NFL quarterback. In college, he was nothing short of a sensation. I know, because I was right there on the field with him at the University of Missouri where he was the starter from 1974 through 1976. He had an arm like a cannon. He was a true leader. Had a winning personality. He was a great friend. And he was one of the top QBs in the nation. In 1975 he was number 1 in the Big 8 Conference in pass completions, yards per attempt and in total passing yards. He was so good, he was drafted in the first round, 19th overall by the St. Louis Football Cardinals. I was also on the field with him there.
And he was never heard from again.
I’m talking about Steve Pisarkiewicz. He never stopped trying, never gave up, never quit… But for whatever reason, success just never came at the pro level. I guess you could make the Tim Tebow comparison if that helps, but at least the Broncos gave Tebow the ball and a chance to show what he could do. Zark never even really got that.
But football would always be his first love, and even though many years have gone by, he has never been far from the game. But he also has an immense respect for the people who play. Not just the stars, but the vast number of us who start with dreams of glory that fade into harsh reality. He has immense respect for those without the gift of natural talent who still fight on for the love of the sport. And more than that, he is stepping up now, in a brilliant way to honor them!
It’s called The Zark Foundation.
It’s an organization he’s put together to raise scholarship funds for student-athletes who have NEVER been recruited by ANY college, who may not even make their school team and who may not even be good enough to try!
The Zark Foundation is for students who have learned about life, developed leadership skills, a strong sense of ethics and a great depth of character THROUGH THEIR PARTICIPATION IN SPORTS.
It’s also for those who have demonstrated a strong work ethic in the classroom but have never risen to the point that any institution, funding or attention has come their way. The Zark Foundation wants to pull them out of that black hole and get them started on their way to a fulfilling and productive life!
“I want to reward these students that are already doing the right thing and support them in a financial way so they can continue their education in whatever their next level might be,” says Pisarkiewicz. “The Zark Foundation’s mission is to advance education through scholarship!”
He’s devised a very clever way of doing it. Here’s how you can help!!!
The Zark Foundation is holding a “Reverse Lottery” where the first name picked is not the winner… Only the LAST name left in the hopper wins! The reward is a $5,000 scholarship! There will be a number of other prizes and gift cards from local businesses and merchants awarded as well. And Pisarkiewicz promises to hold five Reverse Lotteries between now and the end of the year. It’s all fully tax deductible! And the best part is, this is just the beginning! If you’d like to find out how you can help, please contact him at zark11@hotmail.com
Isn’t this a great idea! Lets get behind it, especially if you’re in the central Florida area! And how about a big pat on the back for Steve Pisarkiewicz. In my book he’s always been a winner. This is just more proof!
Dollars for Scholars Counter Flier