How to help The UConn Club

If you are interested in helping the Board of Directors, there are opportunities to help with activities, or consider becoming a Board Member.

 

Purpose

The primary goal of The UConn Club is to raise funds for scholarships for UConn student- athletes and to help fund facilities for UConn Athletics. Current donors to The Husky Fund for UConn Athletics are members of The UConn Club.  The UConn Club scholarship fund is currently valued at approximately $5.2 million.

 

Goal

In 2018-2019, The UConn Club has pledged to raise $1,000,000 for the new campus sports complex over an expected period of ten years. The annual goal is to raise $100,000.

 

History

The UConn Club was started in 1952.  Since its inception, the Club has raised millions and sponsored hundreds of student-athletes with athletic scholarships.

 

The UConn Club Board

There are currently 27 Board members with another 5 Emeritus members.  The Athletics representative is Cat Zuppani.

The UConn Club Board website is TheUConnClub.org, and members of the Board are listed there and on the Husky Fund web site. The Twitter feed is @TheUConnClub, and the club sponsors a Facebook page.

 

Board Membership

Members are elected to serve a three year term with approximately 1/3 of the current board up for re-election each year.  Members are not required to be graduates of the University of Connecticut but must be an active member of The Husky Fund. An email is sent in May to all members of The UConn Club to help solicit candidates for new board members.

 

Board Responsibilities and Needs

Board members are expected to help solicit funds for the various fund raising initiatives.  These include a Golf Tournament, where Board members solicit sponsorships such as event sponsors, Tee sponsors, or foursomes; an auction, where members solicit items and services; and several types of raffles, where members sell tickets.  Board members are not required to make a direct pledge or their own monetary commitment to The UConn Club, only their donation in excess of $100 to the Husky Fund.  In past years the Board has conducted an Annual Awards Dinner, sponsoring various athletic alumni awards and recognizing significant contributions to Athletics.  Board members solicited ads for the Awards Dinner program.  The Board may decide to reconstitute the recognition dinner and create other new activities to raise funds.  The Board is in need of skills for social media (@TheUConnClub on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram in the future); communications and advertising; and web site support.

 

2021-2022 Officers

Steve  Weir- President, Mike Cartona, Vice President, Frank Tavera- Secretary. Steve Germaine is the Treasurer; Lori Riiska- Assistant Treasurer.

 

In addition to recommending a slate of candidates for the board each year, the nominating committee identifies potential officers from among active Board members. Officers often progress through the roles: Secretary, Vice President, then President. The maximum term of the officers is 2 years at each position.  Officers can serve again after a hiatus of at least a year between terms.

 

The two most recent past presidents serve with the current officers on an Executive Committee. The Executive Committee meets an hour before the full Board to plan out the full meeting. Past Presidents currently active on the Board include:  Sandy Senich, Paul Young, Bill DeGrazia, Jim Oleksiw, John Driscoll, and Al Kelland. The Emeritus members are  Barry Botticello, Ramona Beckius, Rick Carbray, Bob Goodman, Paul Samele, Mark Sinatro, and Brian Smith.

 

Meetings

Meeting dates are announced by the President. They usually occur each month at 6:00 p.m. Games do not conflict with meetings. Normally there is no meeting in August due to vacations, and March due to the Basketball Tournaments. The Secretary works with the president and Athletics on an agenda.  Members are expected to attend every meeting. Meeting absences must be cleared with the President. Any director missing three (3) successive meetings of The Board of Directors without proper excuses (as determined by the President) shall be considered to have resigned from the Board. Board members may also attend a Board meeting via teleconferencing. The meeting location is usually sent out a month ahead. The Board provides dinner during the meeting. Beverages are purchased by the member.   Meeting locations vary; the location may change to try to accommodate member’s locations. The Annual Meeting is held in June and is open to all UConn Club members. Elections are conducted at this meeting. Candidates are selected by the nominating committee from an open application process.

 

Athletics annually distributes a list of all the Board members and their contact information.

 

Board members are expected to help generate new ideas for fundraising events – and run them – as well as improve current events.  The Board has run “Game Watches”, Car raffles, season ticket raffles, 50/50 Raffles, and Casino Nights; other fund raisers such as a wine tasting/fashion show have been under consideration.

 

 

The UConn Club is auctioning off a 5 day stay in Cabo San Lucas. You’d want to look at the web site http://www.micasadelsol.com/ to get more information about this property. It’s on the Baja peninsula in Mexico, considered a beautiful and safe location.

The five day stay here includes 5 days in a row, which could include Saturday and Sunday, not just Monday through Friday only. The winning bidder may want to add an extra night or two at a discounted rate of $455 per night.

Here’s a recent testimonial from another person who won the condo at their auction:

“Wow this place far exceeded our expectations.The pictures are spectacular but they still do not do this place justice. My husband, myself and another couple stayed in this little piece of heaven for 5 nights. My only mistake was not adding a few more nights to our vacation. I guess I should of went with my instincts. The penthouse was beautifully decorated and immaculate inside and outside. The property grounds and amenities left you wanting for nothing. The margaritas flowed and relaxation set in immediately! We enjoyed the views daily from the balcony including watching the hump back whales from afar. The pools were breathtaking and heated to perfection. We never wanted to get out especially at night. Matter of fact the guard was closing up one night and politely told us it was time to leave. Time flies when you are having fun. Morning walks on the beach are a must! The Sheraton next door is a great place to visit with a excellent sushi chef. There is plenty to do in town at both San Jose del Cabo and Cabo del Sol. We enjoyed exploring some of the surf breaks which were off the beaten path. Zippers was a fun and affordable ocean front restaurant. We never did find Sammy Hagar’s (the Red Rocker) house but it wasn’t for a lack of trying! We totally enjoyed our time in Cabo and plan to return again some day with our children when they get a little older”

A Slice of Caribbean Paradise

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Find Your Caribbean Rhythm in Montego Bay, Jamaica for Five Days & Four Nights at the All-Inclusive Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall with Economy Class Air for Two

The tropical shores of Montego Bay warmly invite you to relax, indulge and pamper yourself in all-inclusive fashion! The Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is the idyllic destination you’ve been dreaming of, the perfect place to unwind on perfectly white, sandy beaches, while admiring the blue sky above, letting the sun’s rays wash over you, as you sip on a deliciously refreshing beverage. With attentive service at every turn, each guest is assured a harmonious, hassle-free vacation filled with gourmet cuisine, expertly poured cocktails and enough memories to last several lifetimes.

What’s it like to live without a care in the world? At Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, guests will soon find out. There’s no wrong way to spend a day here. Sophisticated and stylish, Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is an indulgent all-inclusive escape for adults age 18 and above who seek refuge from the rigors of the outside world. Within the resort’s sprawling grounds, couples, friends and individuals are welcome to partake in whatever their hearts desire, including water sports to spa indulgences, exploration of the vast lush grounds, unique daily and nightly activities, top-notch entertainment, fine dining at à la carté and gourmet buffet restaurants, sipping unlimited beverages alongside the 14 pools. It’s all part of one all-inclusive price, and part of one unforgettable vacation!

Jamaica is the island of happy days, vivid nights and dreams that come true! Make your slice of Caribbean paradise whatever you want it to be – this is your adventure, so feel free to lose yourself in the magical rainforests, amongst the friendly locals, in the tasty cuisine, and in the slow reggae rhythms. From the natural beauty of lush mountains and the azure Caribbean Sea, there are opportunities for fun from morning until night.

Your trip for two includes:
• Round trip Economy Class air
• 5 days/4 nights accommodations at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
• All meals and gourmet dining, anytime snacks, unlimited drinks and 24 hour food service
• Sensational entertainment: daily and nightly activities, including theme parties, contests, singers and live performances
• Wireless internet
• Gratuities and hotel taxes
• Free concierge reservation service

Estimated Value $7,200

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Travel package is non-refundable and subject to availability. Certificates/gift cards cannot be replaced. Passport required for travel outside the U.S. Airport taxes and carrier imposed fees are the responsibility of the passenger. Flights may not be upgraded with miles. Blackout dates: Feb 14-18, Apr 18-27, Dec 21-31. A minimum 30 day advance reservation is required. Package originates from the Contiguous U.S. Travel is valid for 12 months from date of issue. This is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort for guests age 18 and above.

CANCELLATION POLICY: Cancellation prior to arrival may be subject to forfeiture of reservations and funds.

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The UConn Club will host another online auction. This event has proven popular in the past. Many of the items are only available through this auction. Traveling with UConn teams, dinners with coaches, visiting a practice, signed balls, and some unique sports memorabilia make this a fun event to participate in! Bidding is hosted at www.silentauctionpro.com using group id 987. The easiest way to find the correct links is by visiting the Auction page on this site.

The UConn Club Board of Directors is putting together its annual golf outing.  This popular event is supported by many businesses and individuals, with a terrific day of golf with a memorable lunch and dinner.  A number of UConn Coaches and athletics staff participate, adding to the fun. Check out the information posted here for more information.  The Country Club of Waterbury has been a terrific host with a great course to challenge the golfer.  Check it out at this link. 

The UConn Club Board Golf Committee co-chairs are Sandy Vigliotti-Senich and Kim Demsey, with assistance from Dave Ditta, Ken Kaminsky, Lori Riiska, and Paul Samele.

Bali’s Breathtaking Beauty
Bali, Indonesia

Soak Up the Essence of Bali, Indonesia for Eight Days & Seven Nights at the Bali Double V Villa for Up to Six People, Including Round Trip Airport Transfers and Unrestricted Access to the Canggu Club (Land Only)

Get away to a one-of-a-kind villa in magical Bali, the most famous island in Indonesia, which blends breathtaking mountain scenery, beautiful beaches with warm and friendly people, a vibrant culture and an incredible resort. Whether you seek a respite from your everyday routine, a romantic honeymoon with your beloved, or a serene vacation with your closest family and friends, you’ll find the peace and rejuvenation you need at the Bali Double V Villa. And with a private pool, and access to the Canggu Club’s entertainment and sport ventures, your exotic Balinese holiday is sure to be unforgettable. The amazing Bali Double V Villa is located on the West Coast of the island where you can watch magical sunsets over the Indian Ocean. The Seminyak region of Bali is home to some of the most delectable fine dining restaurants in Asia, the best shopping for local fashion and art, as well as the finest clubs and resorts on the island. Bali Villa Double V invites you to relax in an exquisite three-bedroom villa, which features contemporary furnishings, spacious rooms with en-suites, a fully fitted kitchen, in addition to a seven-meter pool and a villa manager. Everything is on hand to ensure you have an incredible stay. You’ll be ideally located within minutes of high-end shopping, restaurants and bars, as well as an incredible stretch of Seminyak Beach! Save some time to visit the Canggu Club, Bali’s premier entertainment and sporting venue. Set on a sprawling 4 hectare estate amongst the rice fields of Canggu, and just a 10-minute drive to Seminyak, the Canggu Club features a complete fitness center, a lap pool, tennis center, Body Temple Spa, sports bar, multiple restaurants, and so much more!

Your trip for up to six people includes: • 8 days/7 nights accommodations at the Bali Double V Villa • Welcome drinks upon arrival • Daily maid service • Unrestricted access to the Canggu Club • Complimentary internet access • Round trip airport transfers

PACKAGE NUMBER: BA9347-80

ESTIMATED VALUE: $8,800

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Travel package is non-refundable and subject to availability. Certificates/gift cards cannot be replaced. Passport required for travel outside the U.S. A minimum 30 day advance reservation is required. Travel is valid for 12 months from date of issue. Villa will accommodate up to six guests.

CANCELLATION POLICY: Cancellation prior to arrival may be subject to forfeiture of reservations and funds.

Cruise for Two! Amazing 7 Night Spain and Portugal Cruise for two in Cat B cabin provided by Variety Cruises (USA Today Reader’s Choice- “Best Boutique Cruise Line worldwide”). Experience a harmonious balance between conventional cruising and private yachting, unraveling the glories of Spain and Portugal. Each day you will discover a new port of call, a glimpse of ancient history, and rich cultural diversity. Seville, built along the Guadalkivir river with several UNESCO classified monuments and a rich Moorish and Spanish heritage. Grenada with her brilliant architectural jewels such as the Alhambra Palace. Jerez de la Frontera, an Andalusian world famous for its architecture, sherry and fine horses. Ronda, birthplace of bull fighting. Gibraltar, a British outpost right in the South of Spain. Ships operating the program: The Panorama II in 2017 and Harmony G in 2018

Click for a Video About this cruise

INCLUDED: Accommodation in Cat B cabin for 2 passengers – Buffet breakfast & Lunch & Dinner, Optional visits to more than 3 UNESCO Sites, Private BBQ (*weather permitting), Captain’s Honor Night, Host / Cruise Director (*English speaking)

NOT INCLUDED: Flight from US to Spain, Port taxes of roughly $375 per person (collected during the cruise). Crew tips, shore excursions and other personal expenses.

Subject to availability, blackout dates may apply Must book cruise within 12 months of purchase. Upgrades may be available during booking.

VARIETY CRUISES owns and operates 11 upscale and casual MEGA-YACHTS between 4 and 5 stars with capacity of up to 72 guests. The cruise line was established upon the philosophy of connecting local communities and international travelers in a sustainable, non-intrusive way by restricting our cruise operations to small sized upscale yachts that continue to exclusively dock in small as well as secluded ports of call otherwise unreachable by
larger cruise lines. Over the years our small ship cruise experience formula continues to improve and adapt with our times and destinations, yet what still remains at the core is the people that add color to every variety cruises
moment including our team, our guests, and the local communities we visit.

VARIETY CRUISES AWARDS
– USA TODAY READER’S CHOICE AWARDS 2016: “Best Boutique Cruise Line” worldwide
– CruiseCritic.Com 2015: one of the top 15 small ship cruise lines and ” Best for Yacht Cruises” category
– Tourism Awards 2015: Gold Award in “Small Ship Cruising in Greece”  Category
– CruiseCritic.Com; the No1 small ship cruise line in the Scenic Nature category
– Conde Nast Traveler Greece; the best Small Ship Cruise Line in Greece

THE SHIP(s)
In 2017: Discover a two-masted state of the art Motorsailer accommodating up to 49 passengers in 25 cabins. Panorama II was launched in 2004 and fully renovated in 2012, offering the highest standard of accommodation and
comfort safety. In 2015,the main lounge and bar area have been completely refitted followed by a redecoration. The aft area at the Upper deck provides generous semi covered or sun exposed areas and some magnificent views. The restaurant area at the Lower deck is the perfect setting for any of your meals, with generous buffet space and seating, while the Upper Deck restaurant seats all passengers in a single seating, offering meals al fresco weather permitting. The swimming platform enables you to swim when weather and anchorage conditions permit. The Panorama II cabins located at the upper and main decks are equipped with windows, while those at the lower deck come with portholes. All cabins are handsomely designed, finished with lustrous wood trims and warm fabrics. The fully equipped bathrooms are finished with marble. All cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with TV,  telephone (for internal use), hairdryers, mini-fridge, central music, public address system and safe boxes.

In 2018: The Harmony “G” is a modern vessel with a sleek high-tech look very similar to the private yachts to be found in the famous ports of the world. The 53 meter long / 7.2 meter wide Mega Yacht Harmony G was launched in January 2001 and renovated in 2009-10 and in 2013. It complies with the most stringent SOLAS safety regulations ,while its powerful engines and state of the art stabilizers allow for safe and comfortable cruising. Life on board centers around the Indoor / Outdoor lounge and its American bar, on Upper Deck. The classy dining room located on Main Deck is surrounded by large windows. The spacious Sun deck is the ideal place to bask under the sun, read a good book or just gaze at the scenery. The swimming platform on Harmony G stern enables you to swim when weather and anchorage conditions permit.

 

7 Night Cruise Experience (for two) in Costa Rica and Panama! Valid for December – March sailings.  A spectacular yacht cruise to combine a visit to Costa Rica and Panama including the crossing of the Panama Canal. If you want to cruise Panama and Costa Rica in a new more exciting way, you are on the right track! Most cruises in Panama offer a standardized sailing experience, lacking in flexibility and  providing impersonal on board services. We give you the chance of a vivid cruising adventure. Starting from Puntarenas Port, Costa Rica or Flamenco Marina in Panama City, you will have in front of you 8 days of pure exploration in a lower deck cabin. The jungles with their spectacular plants and wildlife, the unique white sand beaches and the Panama Canal crossing, are only some of the myriad treasures this Panama cruise has to offer. THE SHIP: Callisto is a classy Motor Yacht has performed several Atlantic Ocean crossings, and has also sailed along the most interesting coastal sites of Europe, North and West Africa. The M/Y Callisto is of the “boutique” category of cruiser. The yacht’s public areas are cozy and generous, decorated with rich fabrics, handsome woodwork, gleaming brass, antiques and fine works of art.

This a a great video on the cruise – Click Here

INCLUDED: Accommodation in double or twin cabins with private SH/WC & air, full-board: Buffet breakfast and two meals daily, a Welcome cocktail, a local theme evening , fun BBQ and captain’s dinner, regular (filter) coffee, tea and drinking water free all day, Use of fishing and snorkeling equipment (subject to availability), English-speaking cruise escort.

NOT INCLUDED: Flights US to Costa Rica, port taxes of roughly $450 per person (collected during the cruise). Crew tips, personal expenses, shore excursions on the islands or other land arrangements. Your cruise benefits Admin: Be sure to get the winning bidder’s name, email and winning bid amount on your bid sheet record. Subject to availability. Must book cruise within 12 months of purchase. Upgrades may be available during booking.

Subject to availability. Must book cruise within 12 months of purchase. Upgrades may be available during booking.

YOUR HOSTS
Variety Cruises is one of the leading yacht cruise lines worldwide, operating a fleet of 11 fully owned vessels offering travelers the ultimate Yacht Cruise experience. With capacities ranging from 5 to 36 cabins, Variety Cruises’ upscale yachts and experiential cruise itineraries embrace each destination by visiting much-loved and unfrequented ports of call in a private, intimate and relaxed environment. Some of Variety Cruises’ industry nomination highlights:
– USA TODAY READER’S CHOICE AWARDS 2016: “Best Boutique Cruise Line” worldwide
– CruiseCritic.Com 2015: one of the top 15 small ship cruise lines and ” Best for Yacht Cruises” category
– Tourism Awards 2015: Gold Award in “Small Ship Cruising in Greece” category
– CruiseCritic.Com; the No1 small ship cruise line in the Scenic Nature category
– Conde Nast Traveler Greece; the best Small Ship Cruise Line in Greece

Bidding is now open! We encourage all UConn alumni, friends and fans to participate.

Click here to register!

Auction Information

• Over 25 items are up for auction.
• Bidding closes on Sunday, February 4th at 8:00 PM
• Items can be previewed during the UConn Men’s Hockey Game at the XL Center on January 27th from 2:30-5:30 pm
• Winning bidders may pay online by credit card.
• The UConn Club will mail out gift certificates to winners.  Larger auction items will be available for pickup in Rocky Hill, CT.  The winning bidder will also have an option to pay for the delivery, either by USPS mailing of small items or larger items sent via UPS or FEDEX. Detailed pickup information will be provided to the winning bidders.

Join the fun and get started by following these instructions:

• Any PC or tablet with a web browser may be used.  Mobile bidding is available on any iPhone or Android SmartPhone.
• To register for bidding Click here   Note – a credit card number is required during registration.

We expect to add more items on a regular basis so keep checking our home page for more information.

For more information or questions, send an email to Auction@TheUConnClub.org

All proceeds benefit UConn Division of Athletics for student-athlete scholarships and capital projects. Go Huskies!!

An America’s Cup Yacht Experience (LE9396-73) San Diego, California Learn the Ropes and Cast Away in San Diego, California for Five Days & Four Nights at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina with Economy Class Air for Two, Including a Hands-On Experience Aboard an America’s Cup Yacht The Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina puts you close to the sheltered waters of the San Diego Bay, where you’ll experience almost two hours of boat racing. You’ll have the unique opportunity to race on a current generation America’s Cup yacht. This isn’t just a sight-seeing tour, it’s an interactive sailing adventure that delivers the ultimate racing experience! Experience the epitome of California coastal chic at Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina San Diego vacation resort near SeaWorld San Diego. Expect the best at this remarkable vacation resort offering incredible panoramic ocean views, waterfront dining, a contemporary poolside lounge, a pampering eco-friendly spa, and redesigned hotel rooms. The only resort hotel in San Diego with multiple water slides, you’ll delight in a water playground with three pools, waterfront health club, and a full-service marina with jet skis, sailboats, kayaks, sportfishing and whale excursions. Relax on a deck chair and watch the boats in the marina, go sport fishing, take a water taxi over to SeaWorld San Diego, or luxuriate in the eco-friendly Blue Marble spa. San Diego is California’s second largest city. Where blue skies keep watch on 70 miles of beaches and a gentle Mediterranean climate begs for a day of everything and nothing. The property is a unique find among San Diego hotels. Picture a resort-like landscaped setting in the heart of Mission Bay Park, offering panoramic views of the marina and the Pacific Ocean, a pampering spa and water playground with multiple slides. Your America’s Cup sailing experience is a one-of-a-kind way to enjoy San Diego, the sunshine, and the salty air! Be part of the crew on an International America’s Cup Class (IACC) racing yacht – the USA-11. You can man the controls and pitch in, or just sit back and relax as you cheer on the crew and watch the beautiful day slide by at a blissful 10 knots.

Your trip for two includes: • Round trip Economy Class air • 5 days/4 nights accommodations at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina • All room-related taxes • Hands-on 3-hour sailing experience aboard Dennis Conner’s America’s Cup class yacht, “USA-11” • Free concierge reservation service

PACKAGE NUMBER: LE9396-73

ESTIMATED VALUE: $4,300

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Travel package is non-refundable and subject to availability. Certificates/gift cards cannot be replaced. Airport taxes and carrier imposed fees are the responsibility of the passenger. Flights may not be upgraded with miles. Hotel may be substituted with equal or similar accommodations. Blackout dates: Feb 12-15, Mar 14-17, Apr 1-2, 15-16, May 26-29, Jun 2-9, 30, Jul 1-8, 19-24, Sep 1-4, Nov 15-18, 29-30, Dec 28-31. Sailings run on specific days of the week and at specific times. A minimum 30 day advance reservation is required. Package originates from the Contiguous U.S. Travel is valid for 12 months from date of issue.

CANCELLATION POLICY: Any cancellation less than 48 hours prior to arrival for the America’s Cup Yacht Race will be subject to forfeiture of reservations and funds.