onorary alumnus of Hillsdale College and the man behind the Tocco Sports Challenge, talks with us in this week’s edition of Charger Chatter about this year’s 10th annual Tocco Sports Challenge and the importance of striving for physical wellness throughout life.
How do you think the Tocco Challenge went this year?
I think it went exceptionally well this year. We had a really terrific turnout, especially considering the weather was so bad. Rebekah Dell and everyone that helped out did a great job in organizing the event. Also, the competition was very tough this year. The basketball team had their best performance; they had the highest score ever recorded in percentage shooting in the challenge. Their shooting percentage was just off the charts; they shot like pros. Scott Lantis led the baseball team, which had a great performance as well. They had some great hitters. Everyone brought their A-game because it was the last year the challenge is going to be a sports challenge.
What is the most important aspect of the challenge?
The communication I get to have with the students. I strive to deliver the message of the importance of long-term wellness in life. The reason why I do the challenge is to support the mission of the college and to motivate the potential young leaders of America to stay focused on God, family, and country, and to take care of themselves physically so they have the stamina to have a long and productive life.
How did you feel about being able to win the challenge this year?
I think being able to win helped further my message of maintaining physical wellness throughout life. The challenge is intended to be an example. I’ve exercised every day with the exception of three days in the last thirty years and that is why I’m able to compete with college-level athletes. I wanted to show that being healthy isn’t an accident; you have to work at it like I have.
What is your favorite part of the challenge?
I think my favorite part was the football throw. That was the best part for me because I have been practicing and I was able to do very well.
Who do you think has been the best athlete at Hillsdale College?
Mark Nicolet (‘08), Troy Weatherhead (‘11), and Anthony Mifsud (’13). I’d say they were the best athletes that have competed in the challenge because they were highly skilled in all three sports- football, baseball, and basketball- which shows that they are great all-around athletes.
You were on the baseball team for a day and they made you an honorary player. What was it like being on the team?
I tried out for the Charger baseball team in 2006 and I made the team. It was great camaraderie playing ball with the guys. The tryouts were harder than I thought they were going to be, but I was still able to call upon my many years of playing ball. After my tryout, the team held a vote to see whether or not I should be on the team and I was very blessed to have the guys vote me on. The team agreed that if I signed up for classes, I could play. At the time I was too busy to take classes. I would have loved to have done it though. Maybe I’ll try to out for the basketball team next.
What are your favorite sports to play?
I have two favorite sports to play: basketball and tennis. Basketball is great because it requires the skills to play both offense and defense, where most sports normally require one or the other and there’s a huge amount of running. I like tennis because it’s both a physical and mental game.
What is your favorite Charger sporting event to attend?
I love all of them. I have been to track meets, both men and women’s basketball games, football games, and baseball games. I have not been able to attend any tennis or swimming events, but I would definitely like to.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to face in terms of sports or fitness?
Injuries. I have had a back injury for the past three years that I’ve been receiving medical treatments and therapy for, but it has not stopped me from exercising.
Why do you think sports are important?
We are physical beings and using our physical abilities and talents are essential for a balanced life. Sports are important because they are a great test for our will and our fortitude.
-Sam Scorzo
Collegian Reporter
