Golfers turned out Monday to Wynstone Golf Club in suburban North Barrington for Saint Viator High School’s 28th annual Million Dollar Classic. For nearly three decades, alumni, parents and supporters have joined with coaches and athletic staff members to raise money for the school’s athletic programs. Student athletes are always on hand to help work the event and thank donors.
Fr. Charles Bolser meets with golfers before they headed out. (Photos by C.J. Zimmerman)
This year, the outing and dinner specifically raised money to to provide athletes with the necessary equipment, gear and safety measures to continue to compete at the highest level.
The outing allowed golfers to play a private, championship course and this year mingle with a graduate of the school now playing in the NFL. But what distinguishes the event is the chance to recognize the value of a Viatorian education, both in and out of the classroom. And that starts with the Viatorians themselves.
Sure enough, Fr. Charles Bolser, CSV, was on hand to mingle with golfers before they went off. Fr. Bolser served as principal of the high school from 1986 to 1990, and as president until 1998. Now retired, he continues to support the school as chaplain.
“I love to visit with all of the alumni,” Fr. Bolser said of the afternoon.
Associate Jason Kuffle, right, and Fr. Dan Lydon recognize Dominic and Caroline Starr, left, and Cole Kmet, center.
Fr. Daniel Lydon, CSV, President and a 1973 alumnus, was on hand at the outset of the outing and during dinner, when he gave the blessing, helped with the raffle and thanked supporters.
Running the outing was Associate Jason Kuffel, who serves as Athletic Director at Saint Viator. He introduced Cole Kmet, a 2017 graduate who played football at Notre Dame before being drafted in the first round by the Chicago Bears. The star tight end helped recognize Caroline and Dominic Starr, both from the class of 1991, for their support of the school and the outing.
Fr. Dan Lydon offers a blessing before dinner.
“Thank you for your faith in us, your support of our students, and for joining us today to celebrate Saint Viator athletics,” Kuffel said at the end of the evening. “We are stronger than ever, because of you.”