The James Volpe “Take a Lap – Heart and Soul Scholarship” Award

      On May 13, 2011, James was taken from us far too soon.  In his memory this scholarship award is being offered to a male or female that best emulates who James was as a person, as a student and as a teammate.

James was a fiercely competitive and an extremely loyal person. This was most evident on the baseball diamond where James never returned home with a clean uniform.  It was all out, all the time for James whether it was a game, a scrimmage or just a practice. While James did not play every inning of every game on the varsity baseball team, he willfully accepted his role as a part time player and poured his heart and soul into it. He was proud to be a member of the team.  When he had an opportunity to play, or perform his specialty – pinch run, he did so with all the gusto that one could muster.  In the dugout James could be heard chanting “Hmmmm Babe” while always cheering his team on.  Whenever a teammate scored a run, got a big hit, or made a great play in the field, James was the first one out of the dugout with a high five or a bear hug.  James was about team – This could not be more evident than by his retired Jackson Jaguar number 9 uniform.

While baseball was a huge part of James’ life, he was so much more than just a baseball player.  James was an honor student at Jackson Memorial High School where he kindred many friendships.  James was a son, a nephew, grandson and a brother to many.  He enjoyed working with children and had a wonderful experience working at summer recreation camp.  His keen sense of humor and quick wit will not soon be forgotten.  He took pride in family and was a loyal son and friend; a role model who showed respect to all.

Two candidates will be selected from Jackson Memorial and two from Jackson Liberty High Schools.  Said candidates must meet the criteria below to be considered:
*       Honor student with a GPA of 3.5 or above
*       A player on any varsity sports team or extra curricular school sponsored program, who is dedicated to their team and sport that captures James’ spirit and character
*       A 250 word essay explaining why this scholarship is important to you, how it might help and how you might feel  that you fit the mold of James’ spirit and character
*       Brief letter from your coach or teacher speaking to your character and role on the team