Central men’s golfers present funds for Pella Fire Department

The Central College men’s golf team turned a squad fund-raiser into a charitable opportunity with a gift to the Pella Fire Department last week.
Mendoza and coach Mel Blasi presented a $1,000 check to Mike Branderhorst and Justin Trenkamp of the Pella Fire Department.

PELLA—The Central College men’s golf team turned a squad fund-raiser into a charitable opportunity with a gift to the Pella Fire Department last week.

The Dutch Carpetbagger was an evening mini-golf tournament utilizing all three floors of the Maytag Student Center on campus in February. The team partnered with local firefighters to stage the event, allowing students to interact with local first responders. Pella businesses provided hole sponsorships and there were 64 participants from the campus and community.

Senior golfer Drew Mendoza (Manitou Springs, Colo.) developed the concept. His father was a fire department volunteer in Colorado and knew that the department deserved financial support. He contacted Pella chief Doug Van Gorkom to initiate the partnership.

Last week, Mendoza and coach Mel Blasi presented a $1,000 check to Mike Branderhorst and Justin Trenkamp of the Pella Fire Department.

“It was great to see the whole team get involved,” Blasi said. “Each player designed one hole. They were also really good about getting sponsors. Thanks to the Pella community for the support. They were very good about getting the word out.

“We hope to do it again.”