Few sounds are as satisfying as the thwack of the croquet mallet against the wooden ball — especially when it sends your ball through the wicket and simultaneously launches your opponent’s ball to kingdom come.

Plenty of thwacks, with accompanying cheers and groans, were heard across the Westmoreland County Community College playing fields June 9, during the Westmoreland Croquet Club Tournament.

One of the largest croquet tournaments in the country, the annual event benefits Old Joe Club Charities, which in turn distributes proceeds to other organizations working in the areas of human services, conservancy, child protection, life enrichment, art, music and education and providing scholarships.

New this year, attendees also had the opportunity to donate to WCCC’s student emergency assistance program, which can make the financial difference between a student staying in school or having to leave, according to Pam Mowrer, coordinator of the college’s education foundation.

Funds can be used for anything from child care and car repairs to utility bills and groceries, she said: “It’s a hand up, not a handout.”

Tournament co-founder Ernie Vallozzi and organizer Amy Dicesere gave special thanks to major sponsors Accelerated Construction Services, XCoal Energy Resources and Versatech, along with a long list of nonprofits and businesses that also sponsored tents.

Volunteer assistance was provided by students from Greensburg Salem, Greensburg Central Catholic, Hempfield Area and Greater Latrobe high schools.

Seen: Amanda McDivitt and Jake Johnson, Jordan Pallitto, Mike and Suzanne Ward, Sarah and Ron Snowman, Brad and Hannah Roth, Cameron Roth and Emily Mahoy, Michael and Megan Quatrini, Gregory Lane, Nick Rutigliano, Alex Rutigliano, Josh and Kary Milan, Dave and Lori Reese and Mike and Jana Reese.

Also, Victoria Watford, Audrey Fennell, Jerry Craven, Katie Drozynski, Michael and Bree Edgerly, Bryan and Andrea Neiderhiser, Corey and Shannon Sacca, Katie Sapone, Mallory Mulhern, Marco and Julie Sylvania, Endy Reindl, Ted Mellors, Sean McLaughlin and Nicole Murtland.

Competitors included eight members of the Penn State University croquet club.

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