Local Youth Football Camp Honors Sonny Crotti While Supporting Young Athletes Battling Cancer
By: Justin Bradley | Sportzwire | March 16, 2025 | Photo courtesy Andrea Mecca (Borden Photography)
SCRANTON, PA – The Northeast Pennsylvania football community came together on Saturday, March 15, at Riverfront Sports for the second annual Camp for a Cause—a youth football skills camp held in memory of Sonny Crotti, a beloved Dunmore athlete who lost his battle with cancer.
Organized by Coach Ryan Runco and Sonny’s father, Joe Crotti, the camp has grown significantly, bringing together young athletes from all schools and backgrounds. More than just a training opportunity, it served as a powerful reminder of brotherhood, resilience, and the importance of giving back.
Football, Brotherhood, and a Mission to Give Back
The camp welcomed athletes in grades 3 through 7, providing comprehensive football training across all positions. However, the true purpose extended beyond the field—supporting two young warriors currently battling cancer:
Sebastian Trotta – A Wallenpaupack Jr. High football and baseball player diagnosed with stage 4 leukemia.
Gio Lucido – A Riverside Junior Vikings football player diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma.
One of the most impactful aspects of the event was the support from Sonny’s former varsity coach, Kevin McHale of the Dunmore Bucks, who, alongside his team and many of Sonny’s former teammates, helped run drill stations. Their presence and guidance provided young athletes with valuable insight while keeping Sonny’s spirit alive.
🔗 Interview with Coach Kevin McHale
Additionally, Coach Chris Bantell, a Dunmore resident and now Associate Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator for the Wilkes University Colonels football team, played a key role in the camp’s success. Bantell brought several of his college players to help run position stations and engage with the kids, creating a fun and inspiring atmosphere for all attendees.
"Sonny and his dad always had a saying—approach each day to get 1% better. And today, you're doing that," Coach Ryan Runco told the campers. "Whether it's in school, in football, or in life, always aim to improve."
🔗 Interview with Coach Steve Jervis
To reinforce this mindset, the "Sonny Crotti 1% Better Award" was presented to seven athletes across different position groups, recognizing those who demonstrated exceptional effort, hustle, and dedication—values that Sonny embodied both on and off the field.
Support From NEPA's Top Athletes
The impact of Sonny’s legacy was evident as many of the region’s top football players came out to support the cause. Among them were Jakob Lesher (Mid Valley), Louis Paris (Scranton Prep), Jack McNeff (Dunmore), Danny Pigga (Wilkes University/Dunmore), Shawn Theodore (Abington Heights) among many more.
These standout athletes not only helped with drills but also emphasized the importance of community, leadership, and giving back.
🔗 Louis Paris of Scranton Prep Interview
"I think it's really important to be here," said Paris. "Sonny was a great kid, came from a great family, and it’s awesome to see so many kids here, along with older high school players coming to help out too."
A Community United in Support
The camp served as a reminder that football is more than just a game—it’s a family. Players, coaches, and families set aside school rivalries and team affiliations to rally behind Gio Lucido and Sebastian Trotta, showing them that they are not alone in their fight.
One hundred percent of the proceeds from Camp for a Cause will benefit these two courageous young athletes, reinforcing the power of teamwork, selflessness, and community support.
Bigger Than the Game
The NEPA football community once again proved that strength is not just measured in wins and losses, but in the willingness to stand together for a greater cause.
This camp wasn’t just about football—it was about heart, perseverance, and giving back. Sonny Crotti’s legacy lives on, inspiring young athletes to work harder, be better, and always support those in need.
