The untimely loss of two Vernon squash community members has deeply saddened players and the community. But their legacy as passionate community builders and champions was celebrated with a different kind of ball and hand-held implement.
The first Rob LeNoury and Dave Hentschel Golf Fundraiser raised $6,251, which will support the Hentschel and LeNoury Memorial Squash Program, a youth initiative born from their shared vision and administered through North Okanagan Youth and Family Service Society (NOYFSS) and The Roster Sports Club.
Hosted at the Spallumcheen Golf and Country Club and The Roster on Saturday, June 17, the fundraiser drew 60 enthusiastic golfers for an 18-hole game, followed by a gathering featuring a burger bar and silent auction.
“The loss of both Dave and Rob has deeply shaken our community, but we know that both of them would want us to continue their legacy of supporting youth,” said Mike Collins, friend of Hentschel and LeNoury and organizer of the fundraiser.
Before Hentschel’s passing earlier this year, he played a pivotal role in establishing the Rob LeNoury Memorial Squash Program after Rob’s sudden passing in 2020. Now in its third year, the program has been renamed the Hentschel and LeNoury Memorial Squash Program to honour both men.
“This program embodies their shared dream of promoting squash and empowering young minds,” said Collins. “Dave and Rob were pillars of our city, volunteer firefighters, and advocates for our youth and community. I am grateful to have played a small part in keeping this program alive in the community.”
Hentschel and LeNoury were passionate squash players at The Roster. Over the past three years, the youth program has introduced numerous children aged eight to 14 to the game of squash, and the many benefits that go with participating in youth sport.
“Both Rob and Dave were exceptional individuals, good friends, and community advocates,” said NOYFSS executive director Dean Francks, who worked with both men. “I believe in the power of sport in fostering the healthy development of our youth. This youth squash program not only promotes physical health and exercise but also instills valuable life skills, such as teamwork, self-confidence, and social engagement.
“We are honoured to stand behind this program.”
Hussein Hollands is the owner of The Roster. Hentschel and LeNoury’s impact on the squash community and their commitment to youth advocacy will continue to inspire the club, he said.
“We will fondly remember Dave and Rob’s presence and laughter echoing through the club for years to come – and proudly carry on their legacy of supporting youth and fostering a vibrant squash community,” said Hollands.
Thank you to all the golfers, sponsors, and donors who made this event possible: Coldstream Truck Parts, Kees Tae Kwon Do, M2 Systems, Pid’s Gutter Services, Printech, The Roster, Uptime, Valley Marine, Molson, Okanagan Spring Brewery, Specialty Bakery, Spallmucheen Golf Course, Saputo, Homestead Drywall, and Centennial Food Service.
To honour their memory and further contribute to the Hentschel and LeNoury Memorial Squash Program, visit the donation page at https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/north-okanagan-youth-andfamily-services-society/
READ MORE: Squash program honours Vernon man’s legacy
READ MORE: VIDEO: Fallen BX volunteer firefighter honoured
roger@vernonmorningstar.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
