Tee time! Tee time! (August 05, 2005)

Golf tournament honors local sports enthusiast, and raises money for Amador
by Cathy Jetter

Steve Mattos loved sports, he loved kids, and he loved having a good time. Whether he was playing golf, coaching whatever activity happened to be in season, or taking one of his six children to a favorite sporting event, you could be sure that he, and everyone else involved, was enjoying every minute.

Which is why family and friends are sure Steve would be pleased to know that on September 30 those who love and remember him will be gathering to take part in the First Steve Mattos Memorial Golf Classic, benefiting another of Steve's passions: the Amador Athletic Boosters. Dave Juillerat, president of the Amador High School Athletic Boosters, says the tournament is an appropriate way to pay tribute to the man who gave so much time and energy supporting young Pleasanton athletes.

"With six children, all very involved in sports, Steve spent a lot of hours coaching softball, basketball and soccer. He touched many lives through the years; a lot of local kids benefited from his involvement."

As his children entered their high school years at Amador, Steve became an active participant in the Athletic Boosters including serving as vice president at the time of his death. Steve's wife, Patty, says his devotion to the organization inspired her as she considered different options for honoring her husband's memory.

"The Boosters were tremendously important to Steve. He loved being a part of all they do. For a while now, the Boosters have been looking at ways to fund a new scoreboard for the football field. It just seems right that Steve should be a part of accomplishing that goal," Patty said.

Becky Randall agrees. Her memories of Steve and his contributions to the community led her to volunteer to serve as Chairperson of the golf tournament.

"My husband, Mark, and Steve coached our daughters' teams together. Steve had a wonderful spirit and a great sense of humor. Anyone who knew him found that out right away. There is no doubt that he would be very pleased to be remembered in such a significant way," Becky said.

Becky points out that the field is used year-round by a variety of teams, not just football.

"Lacrosse, track and soccer will all be able to use the scoreboard, as well as entities outside of AVHS, including the Special Olympics." That, adds Patty, would particularly please her husband, who attended every Amador athletic event he could.

Of course, there are considerable costs associated with purchasing and installing the scoreboard. "The Mattos family has offered the principal donation, the Boosters have dedicated an additional contribution, and we are determined that the golf tournament will raise the rest of the funds," Becky says. Their goal? $20,000, and a lot of fun in the process.

"More than anything, Steve would want his friends to go out and have a good time," smiles Patty recalling her husband's talent for turning every event into a memorable occasion. "Making sure everyone enjoyed themselves, that would be his goal."

With that in mind, Becky says she and her fellow committee members have planned a full day of diversions, teeming with opportunities to contribute to the cause.

"We've got long drive and putting contests, a silent auction, eighteen holes of golf, a cocktail reception and awards dinner, and marvelous hole-in-one and raffle prizes. There is definitely something for everyone to enjoy." Set it all on the beautiful backdrop of Poppy Ridge Golf Course, and as Becky states, "You'll have to try awfully hard not to have a great time."

The number of individuals asking "how can I help" is a continuing testament to the positive effects Steve brought to others throughout his 56 years. Becky and Patty want everyone to know that offers to volunteer time and donations are welcome and deeply appreciated.

"There are a variety of ways people can help make the event a success," Becky explains. "From tournament sponsorship to providing auction items to helping with registration and activities on the day of the tournament, there is a whole range of opportunities to get involved, and they can all be found on the website, www.mattos.golfreg.com."

Though the first Steve Mattos Memorial Golf Classic is still weeks away, plans to make this an annual event are already in progress.

"We hope to use this occasion to raise money each year for a specific project on the Booster's 'wish list,'" Becky says. "In that way, Steve's spirit and inspiration will continue to be an influence for years to come." And, of course, most importantly, they'll have fun along the way.
Be there for tee time

What: The First Steve Mattos Memorial Golf Classic

When: Friday, September 30. Noon scramble with dinner and auction to follow

Where: Poppy Ridge Golf Course

Visit: www.amadorsports.com or www.mattos.golfreg.com to register online

Volunteer or make a donation: Call Becky Randall, 462-1287

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