.jpg "Sonny Crotti Camp for a Cause: A Community United Through Football")
Sonny Crotti Camp for a Cause: A Community United Through Football
By: Justin Bradley | Sportzwire | February 2, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
Coach Runco talks Camp For A Cause
Sports are about more than just competition—they create a brotherhood, teach resilience, and build communities. The Sonny Crotti Camp for a Cause, now in its second year, embodies all of these values. What began as a youth football skills camp to raise funds during his fight has now become a movement of support and strength, honoring the legacy of Sonny Crotti, a former Dunmore Buck student-athlete who bravely battled cancer.
(Rich Banick Photography)
At the forefront of this initiative are Ryan Runco, Sonny’s former quarterback coach, and Joe Crotti, Sonny’s father. Their mission is clear: keep Sonny’s spirit alive by bringing athletes, coaches, and the entire community together for a cause that truly matters.
Supporting Two Young Warriors
This year, the Sonny Crotti Camp for a Cause is dedicated to raising funds for two young athletes currently facing battles of their own:
Sebastian Trotta – A Wallenpaupack Junior High football and baseball player diagnosed with stage 4 leukemia.
Gio Lucido – A Riverside Junior Vikings football player diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma.
Just like Sonny, Sebastian and Gio are fighters, and their courage in the face of adversity is nothing short of inspiring. No athlete fights alone, and this camp is a way for the football community to stand beside them.
Elite Coaches & Star Players Giving Back
This event is not just an opportunity to develop football skills—it’s a chance to train under some of the best coaches and players in the area. Varsity coaches lending their expertise include:
Steve Jervis – Head Coach, Lackawanna Trail
Greg Dohlen – Head Coach, North Pocono
Mike Perry - Former Off. Coordinator, Dunmore
Joining them are some of the region’s top high school athletes, who will work with campers and help mentor the next generation of players:
Louis Paris - Quarterback, Scranton Prep
Jakob Lesher – Running Back, Mid Valley
Nick Bradley – Quarterback, Abington Heights
Jack McNeff - Quarterback, Dunmore
Nico DeSantis - Tight End, North Pocono
Sal Talarico - Running Back, Scranton Prep
Having both experienced coaches and standout players involved elevates the camp to more than just a training event—it becomes a true community effort where experience and passion for the game come together for a great cause.
Event Details & How to Get Involved
📅 Date: Saturday, February 15th
⏰ Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Riverfront Sports Complex
💰 Cost: $40 (Cash due on the day of the camp)
📢 Eligibility: Open to Grades 3-7 (All positions welcome)
🔗 REGISTER HERE: Camp For A Cause Registration
A Community Effort—Everyone Can Make an Impact
This camp is open to all communities—not just players. Whether you’re a:
✔️ Young athlete looking to develop your skills
✔️ Former player wanting to give back
✔️ Coach looking to support the next generation
✔️ Local business interested in sponsoring or contributing
There are many ways to be involved, and every contribution helps make a real difference. Contact Joe Crotti at joecfitcoach@gmail.com to get involved.
Let’s pack the field to honor Sonny, support Sebastian and Gio, and prove that football is more than just a game—it’s a family.
Together, we can make a difference—one play at a time.
