Barrington High School senior Rylan Twohig capped off summer break by organizing a charity flag football game that raised $500 for Make-A-Wish Massachusetts & Rhode Island.

Nearly 20 Barrington Flag Football players, ages 10 to 14, gathered at Chianese Field on Monday, Aug. 24—the final Monday before the school year began. The closely contested game ended 28–26.

Twohig created and organized the event to unite the community for a good cause. Classmates Liam Jacob and Jake Sanfilippo coached. Greg Blanco of Barrington Flag Football assisted with coordination, and the Barrington Department of Public Works made sure the field was lined and ready. Twohig, Jacob, and Sanfilippo have all previously coached youth players in the Barrington Flag Football league.

“I wanted to organize the event because I thought it would be a fun way to bring people together while supporting a really good cause,” Twohig said. “Every kid deserves the chance to have a great experience and make memories, and that’s what Make-A-Wish helps make possible.”

“Our BHS student-athletes have a great opportunity to be role models for kids throughout Barrington,” Blanco said. “By coaching, volunteering, and giving their time, they can stay connected to the youth programs that helped shape them—and hopefully see some familiar faces cheering them on at high school games.”

All proceeds will benefit Make-A-Wish Massachusetts & Rhode Island, which grants life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses.

For information about the Barrington Flag Football league or organizing future charity flag football events, contact bpwri.flag@gmail.com.