UTICA, NY — Utica College Head Football Coach Blaise Faggiano will be receive the 2018 Kristin's Fund Leadership Award at the Kristin's Fund Gala at Turning Stone Resort Saturday. Faggiano is receiving this honor for the example he sets for his staff, his players and the Utica community.

Tickets: Those interested in attending Saturday's gala can purchase tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-kristins-fund-gala-tickets-41118090315
 
2nd Annual Kristin's Fund Gala 2018: The Gala will be held on Saturday, March 10 at Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, NY. It will be open to the public and tickets for the event are on sale now for $125. All proceeds to benefit Kristin's Fund, affiliate of the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties. In attendance as a special guest and key note speaker will be former star of The Housewives of Beverly Hills, Anti-Domestic Violence Advocate and Author, Taylor Armstrong. There will also be a chance to mix and mingle with some VIP's such as: tight-end coach for the Green Bay Packers Brian Angelichio, nine-season NHL goalie Robert Esche and three-time Stanley Cup champion Colin Fraser.
 
Kristin's Fund: On September 28, 2009 Kristin Palumbo Longo lost her life to domestic violence. She was a free spirit, remembered for her bright smile which brought much comfort and joy to those around her. She loved children and was a mother to four of her own, Joseph in 1992, Catherine in 1994, Gianna in 1997, and Jared in 2000. She was a hockey mom, a cheerleading coach, and a "pseudo mom" to her children's friends. Her warm heart was always willing to open the door to anyone who wanted or needed to spend time in their home.
 
Coach Faggiano: Coach Faggiano recently wrapped up his 10th season on the sidelines at Utica this past Fall.  He has guided 80+ student-athletes to Empire 8 All-Conference status during his time at the helm, including two Empire 8 Conference Player of the Year honorees, an E8 Rookie of the Year, an E8 Special Teams Player of the Year. Four Pioneers have earned the highest honor of being named All-American under the guidance of Faggiano. In his 10 years as head coach the football program has completed well over 100 community services projects locally and he currently resides in Whitesboro, NY, with his wife Alison and children, James and Josie.