To the casual observer, it’s the Shrub Oak Memorial Rink—but to those who grew up playing there, it's always been called "Sunnyside." On May 2 that name took on a new meaning as the community gathered under the spring sun not just to clean a facility, but to reclaim a sanctuary for Yorktown’s families.
In an outpouring of community spirit, more than 30 volunteers gathered to transform a space that had been subject to years of neglect. The atmosphere on the ground more closely mimicked a family barbeque, rather than a chore. As the morning progressed, neighbors from Yorktown were joined by volunteers from surrounding towns - and even a supporter from as far as the Czech Republic - all united by a single goal: making sure the next generation has a place to grow, compete, and belong.
The work was a visceral reminder of the power of a "village" in action. For hours, volunteers scrubbed away years of mold and mildew from the boards and benches by hand. They cleared encroaching plants from the surface and dug through layers of moss and dirt that had settled behind the team benches. Without specialized equipment, the team improvised with leaf blowers to dry the surface, ensuring every inch of the rink was ready for the next chapter.
"I can't even put into words how proud I am of what we did out here today," said Cassandra Vazquez from Friends of Shrub Oak Rink. "The community has come together for Joey, this rink, and for growing the game of hockey. I am filled with gratitude to be a part of this".
Read More: Yorktown families rally to restore Shrub Oak roller hockey rink
At the heart of the day was a profound sense of brotherhood. The effort is fueled by the memory of locals like Joey Pagliaro, whose spirit was felt in every sweep of a broom. Grace O’Connor, founder of the Dan O’Connor Foundation, returned to the rink where her brothers Dan and Marc once played alongside Joey and Nicky. Her presence served as a moving bridge between Yorktown’s past and its future, emphasizing that these boards represent more than sports - they represent the strength and resilience of our community.
The community’s hard work resonated deeply. Luciana Haughwout, a member of Yorktown's Planning Board, took to social media the following day to praise the effort. "What you’re doing matters more than words can hold," she shared. "It takes a community to honor it and keep that spirit alive".
The "Friends of Shrub Oak Rink" ensured the morning felt like a true community celebration, providing snacks, water, and soft drinks to keep the hardworking crew fueled. The group worked hand-in-hand with town maintenance staff and received vital support from the Friends of Yorktown Parks & Recreation to ensure the day was a success.
While local leaders like Jann Mirchandani and John Campobasso stopped by to witness the transformation, the real story was the 30 neighbors who refused to let a piece of Yorktown’s history fade away. As Chance Catucci, one of the group's members, noted following the event: "The cleanup is behind us, but our fight for the rink is just warming up".
As the last of the dirt was cleared, the energy at Sunnyside was undeniable. The boards are shining, and the path is now clear for a summer of street hockey clinics, family skate nights, and a renewed sense of togetherness. The group will carry this momentum into Thursday night’s Recreation Commission meeting, proving that in Yorktown, the community always shows up for its own.
For updates on programming and events visit Friends of the Shrub Oak Memorial Park Roller Rink on Facebook.
Article courtesy of Friends of Shrub Oak Rink
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