The Syracuse Chiefs are sponsoring an art, essay and poetry contest for youth in recognition of "Jackie Robinson Day," which is April 15. Each K-12 student who submits an entry in one of the three categories will get two free tickets to the Chiefs 2 p.m. doubleheader against the Ottawa Lynx.
Winners will be recognized during a pre-game ceremony. Prizes will be given for each grade category: first prize, a Chiefs hat and on-field recognition; grand prize, also a night in a luxury suite for 12 people during a game; school that submits highest percentage of entries per student wins a visit from Chiefs players.
Here are the contest guidelines:
Art: Create a painting, drawing or other rendering (not larger than 22" x 28") that shows the spirit of Jackie Robinson.
Essay: Write an essay of 250-350 words chronicling Robinson's life struggles.
Poetry: Write a poem of 10 to 12 lines exploring one or more of Robinson's nine values for success - courage, determination, teamwork, persistence, integrity, citizenship, justice, commitment and excellence.
Entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. March 30 at the Chiefs offices, 1 Tex Simone Dr., Syracuse. For more information, contact Andy Gee at firstname.lastname@example.org or 474-7833.