Youth Participant : Rocco Ricchiuti
By Ashley Ricchiuti
There is an old adage : zest for life . Anyone who has ever met Rocco Ricchiuti instantly recognizes his undeniable , spirited determination that powers his little body through any obstacle crossing his path .
Early on , Rocco ’ s parents , Ashley and Vincent Ricchiuti quickly noted his willingness to try new things as he passionately attempted to keep up with his older twin sisters , Chiara and Ilaria ( age 7 ). Whether it was riding a bike , playing soccer , or strapping on skis to ski down the bunny hill , Rocco boasted a “ can do ” attitude and a crushing smile .
In fact , it was Rocco ’ s drive to succeed that made him an ideal participant in the Central California Adaptive Sports program , even at the young age of three years old . Mom and dad , both avid skiers , embraced this unique opportunity for their son , knowing the high level of expertise offered by the Adaptive Sports program for children with physical challenges could be the difference maker in Rocco ’ s quest to ski . And as one may expect , it did not take long for Rocco to embrace all the wonders the program had to offer : exceptional and caring instructors , positive and constructive messaging , and a sense of trust allowing Rocco to brave the slopes .
The instructors always encouraged and motivated Rocco to learn with the goal to join his big sisters , parents , cousins , grandparents , aunt and uncle up on the hill . Ashley and Vincent marveled how patient and nurturing the instructors were which enabled Rocco to hone his newfound skills . Each weekend when the family packed the car for a trip up to China Peak , Rocco chattered with excitement as he looked forward to seeing his buddies in the ski program . One day when mom asked Rocco how he wanted to celebrate his fourth birthday , he blurted out , “ with my ski buddies !” Later , when Ashley conveyed this heartwarming story to Randy Coffman , executive director , and his instructors at Adaptive Sports they immediately and thoughtfully threw together an impromptu birthday party . Rocco , surrounded by his friends , floated down the snowcovered hill with the biggest birthday smile ever !
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Rocco is part of CCASC ’ s “ Community Kids ” program , a scholarship fund supported by your donations that allows local children to participate in our outdoor recreation programs at little or no cost . If you would like more information about this program or are interested in donating to this fund , please contact us .