The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) has been part of St. Patrick Parish for about 10 years.  Ned Burns, who directs the ministry as athletic director and coach of the girls' varsity basketball team, has been associated with the program for three years.  Six adults serve on the CYO board.

The purpose of CYO is to develop a sound student Christian athlete.  Presently, there are five sports with about 150 of our parish youth participating:  boys' and girls' basketball, cross-country track, cheerleading, and volleyball.  The track program is open to students in kindergarten through the eighth grade.  Other programs are for students in the third through the eighth grades.

Ned spoke highly of the board and the coaches who are diligent in incorporating prayer in the individual programs as they teach the sport itself.  At competitive events, for example, our teams offer prayers for their opponents as well as our team.  CYO offers young people a competitive sports environment where they are taught moral direction and Christian behavior.

To have a well-rounded CYO, St. Pat's youth have extra curricular activities and do community service.  Our youth attend local basketball games and have had the opportunity to participate in sport activities at places such as the Palestra.  Their community service also includes projects at the local senior center as well as for our parish.  Ned says the kids have lots of fun doing these things along with their practices and competitions.

The CYO Ministry offers a great opportunity to the involved children, their families and the adult volunteers who serve on the board and coach.  For information on getting involved, please call Ned Burns at (610) 444-4705.