Youth team in KC says it had thousands of dollars of gear stolen. They want your help
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Thieves allegedly stole $5,000 in gear from Necco Raiders’ shed, trailer before June 23.
- Losses include electric scoreboard and PA system critical for upcoming season.
- Nonprofit now seeks donations to replace equipment before August league start.
A local youth sports team is scrambling to replace equipment after having thousands of dollars worth of gear stolen.
The Necco Raiders, part of the Northland Suburban Youth Football League, call San Rafael Park their home field. However, it was there where, according to organization lead Ashley Collins, volunteers found the shed door “pried open” and trailer lock “busted off” when they showed up for a summer training night on June 23.
The thieves stole electric scoreboard equipment and the entire PA system, Collins said. She estimated the total losses at about $5,000.
Edie and Anthony Simone founded the Necco Raiders in 1985 to honor their son Tommy, a talented athlete who died at the age of 12. The nonprofit, which offers flag football, tackle football and cheerleading, serves more than 300 kids in the community spanning from kindergarten to 8th grade.
Right now the team has optional summer practices once a week. But regular practices and the first home game of the season will take place in August.
The team typically starts the season with no funds and hosts a few fundraisers throughout the season to keep things running. Now, the organization is racing against the clock to replace equipment ahead of the season.
“Everything is volunteer,” Collins said, “all of our coaches — everything. So many people pour so much time into the organization and help make it successful and be a place that families enjoy and want to spend their time.”
The Raiders have fundraising accounts on Venmo and Square.
Anyone with information should contact KC Police by calling 816-474-8477 or texting TIP452 and a message to 274637.
