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August 25, 2023

Annual Media Day Event Recognizes KCKPS Student Athletes

A large group of people gathers on a stage for a presentation, with a screen in the background reading 'FOUNDATION GIFTS'.

A large crowd of people gathers in a well-lit hall, seated at tables facing a stage.

Several athletic groups at Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools received a big boost from a charitable organization in the community. 

The DiPasquale Moore Law Firm awarded the KCKPS Athletic Department a $30,000 donation at the Third Annual Media Day Event. 

The check presentation was held at a banquet hall inside Arrowhead Stadium on Wednesday, August 23. 

A large group of people gathers on a stage for a presentation, with a screen in the background reading 'FOUNDATION GIFTS'.

Close to 20 high school football teams from Kansas and Missouri were represented at the event. DiPasquale Moore donated various amounts to at least a half dozen schools. The money donated to KCKPS will be shared by the district’s football and volleyball teams. 

Those funds will go toward the purchase of equipment and other items essential to the teams’  success. KCKPS Athletic Director Samuel Simmons Sr. believes the donation is more than just about money. “It sets an example for our young people. It lets them see that there are those out there who care. And it provides additional resources for our scholar-athletes, which is amazing,” said Simmons.

A group of people stand on a stage during a presentation in a large conference room.

The highlight of the event may have been when each football team was brought up on the stage for a question-and-answer period. The emcee asked each team’s coach and players about their upcoming season. The responses were nearly the same. Each team talked about their off-season workouts and the hard work they’ve put in so far. More or less, each team has a goal of improving from the year before and improving their record. 

The annual media day event also featured several speakers. Former KU and NFL player Brandon McAnderson spoke about the importance of working hard on and off the field. He went on to talk about the importance of asking for help when it’s needed and encouraged everyone to be a support system for one another. 

The sponsor of the event, Michael DiPasquale, had the final word. He encouraged all of the student-athletes in attendance to have a backup plan. DiPasquale recalls wanting to play professional football when he was in high school. He was fortunate enough to play Division I football, but that’s where his dream ended. It took him a while to realize that he needed to pivot and focus on his future. 

Four people stand together indoors, with two wearing red football jerseys labeled "BULLDOGS 69" and "BULLDOGS 72".

DiPasquale’s words resonated with Simmons because he experienced a very similar situation. He was fortunate enough to reach the NFL, but his dream of a lasting career ended abruptly.  “Have a vision. Have a plan. Set those plans, and don’t let anyone stop you from reaching them,” said Simmons.

To view a photo gallery of the event, click on the link.