Wreckers Cook Up A Storm For Gillespie Center

Community service is a key component of the Staples boys soccer experience. The Wreckers know the importance of giving back to the town that has given so much to them.

This summer, nearly a dozen and a half players undertook an intriguing — and very important — project.

Under the leadership of co-captain Noah Schwaeber, a group gathered at Thursday’s Farmers’ Market.

Guided by Luke Lamparelli — a well-known chef who volunteered his time and expertise — Schwaeber, Daniel Brill, Chris Andrews, Max Hammer, Andres Marmelo, Aidan Wisher and Tyler Wright shopped for goods. Funds came from a previous effort last month: Schwaeber, Daniel Brill, Matteo Broccolo, Kenji Goto, Graham Gudis, Timmy Liles and Sebastian Wick helped shoppers carry bags to cars, in exchange for voluntary contributions.

On Friday afternoon, a different crew gathered in Schwaeber’s kitchen. Once again led by Chef Luke, they chopped, shucked, simmered and stirred. They were preparing fajitas, pasta and sauce, a fantastic salad and a berry-filed dessert. Cooks included Andrews, Marmelo, Schwaeber, Daniel Brill, Kenny Brill, Spencer Daniels and Benji Malowitz.

A couple of hours later, they transported everything to the Gillespie Center. There, Wreckers Schwaeber, Wright, Luka Autard and Grant Sirlin — served it to residents of Westport’s homeless shelter.

It was one of the best meals in Gillespie Center memory. Thanks to Chef Luke, Westport Farmers’ Market director Lori Cochran, Farmers’ Market advisory board member Patti Brill, and all who helped with this very “stirring” event.

Chris Andrews, Max Hammer, Tyler Wright, Noah Schwaeber, Chef Luke Lamparelli, Daniel Brill, Aidan Wisher and Westport Farmers’ Market director Lori Cochran, shopping at the market.