By By BRIAN HAINES, Sports Writer
The third annual Damien Wilkins’ Fun Day brought a smile to the faces of all those that attended, but for one particular attendee was a little more special.
For Washington resident and Bobby Andrew’s/ Seventh Street Gym legend Sam Crawford, Saturday’s Fun Day was one that he will never forget.
During Saturday’s festivities, Wilkins, the former Washington Pam Pack star and current Seattle SuperSonic, awarded prizes ranging from posters to Ipods to the Washington youth that won various competitions such as best hula-hooper and jump roper, as well as raffles.
While all the children received their prizes flashing 100-watt smiles, it was the gift given to Crawford that lit up the already sunny field adjacent to the Washington Boys and Girls Club.
After learning that Crawford had recently had his moped stolen, Wilkins, in midst of handing out prizes, stopped the ceremony and began the most touching part of the day.
With microphone in hand, Wilkins praised Crawford for all that he has done for him, and all the other young athletes of Washington, then proceeded to wheel out a brand new moped for Crawford.
Wilkins said it was the least he could do to help someone who had played an important role in his life as a young athlete.
Crawford said even before he got his new ride, the Fun Day was big success.
While jumping on a brand new moped may have been the highlight of Crawford’s day, Wilkins said that the whole evening was like one big highlight.
The Fun Day had a tremendous turnout, and Wilkins said he was happy to see the day continue to expand.