George Hargrove being interviewed by Channel 40  |  Tim O'Donnell answering questions  |  Katie, Tina, Alison and Bob from Stevens 470   |  the theater was full and we were pleased to have Mayor Sarno join us

The premiere screening of George: Wrestling with Resistance was a huge success! Every seat in the theater at the Basketball Hall of Fame was full and there were many people standing in the back and sitting on the stairs. The story of hope and optimism for the young people of Springfield was well received and it was obvious that many of the people attending were proud to be a part of Springfield and to share in the story of George’s success.

George Hargrove, the subject of the film, and his family attended. George answered questions with poise and shared his delight in being on the big screen. George is an incredibly charming young man with a composure well beyond his years.

Tim O’Donnell, the filmmaker, is a talented and motivated educator and artist. He is proud to be a teacher in Springfield and truly cares about the young people he shares his time with every day. The relationship between Tim and George is clearly inspirational for both of them. Tim also answered questions and shared his personal stories about making this film.

Tim’s objective for this screening was to show the people of Springfield that the young people in our public schools are full of potential. They are smart and talented and looking for a positive direction. George, in spite of the hardships he has faced growing up, has succeeded as a wrestler, but more importantly, as a young man and as a role model.

At the end of the event, Tim invited all of the Springfield students in attendance to stand up, and he then reminded us that while he has made a film about George, and George is indeed exceptional, there are so many talented and motivated students attending school in Springfield. And with the support of family, educators, and the community they all have unlimited potential.

Thank you Hampden Bank and Baystate Health for joining us in sponsorship of this event.

For more information or to purchase the DVD visit www.georgewrestling.com