OXFORD, Maine – Justice-involved youth from Long Creek Youth Development Center (LCYDC) and Juvenile Community Corrections (JCC) participated in the Youth Bass Fishing Tournament on Saturday, May 18, at Thompson’s Lake in Oxford, ME. Eight teams in total from the Department of Corrections Juvenile Services Division took part in the event, which were made up of personnel and residents or clients from LCYDC and JCC along with a member of the Bronzeback Maniacs Bass Club.
“Many, if not all, of the youth that we bring have never fished or been on a boat before,” said LCYDC Director of Security Sean O’Keefe. “This tournament allows the youth to have a day on the water, learn how to fish, and take those lessons with them in hopes that they will continue to engage in a pro-social outdoor activity.”
Top honors went to the team of Juvenile Community Corrections Officer (JCCO) Nicole Sevigny and her boatmates. The team of JCCO and Field Training Officer (FTO) Brook Bowley and her boatmates placed second. Results are based on the weight of the 10 best fish from each team.
Bronzeback Maniacs Bass Club donated their time, boats, and gear for the annual tournament. Each participating youth from LCYDC and JCC was provided a fully stocked tackle box and rod and reel, which they were able to keep after the event. Youth from LCYDC will have access to their gear at future outdoor activities.
This is the fourth consecutive year that justice-involved youth have participated in the tournament. Their involvement was made possible by Friends of Long Creek, LCYDC Chief of Volunteer Services Stephanie Netto, and O’Keefe.
