The Smithtown Central School District community lost Valerie Kratochvil when she passed away in 2024. She may be gone but her memory has not been forgotten.
The community came together this week to honor her memory and life with a volleyball tournament. Students and faculty faced off in a “Volley for Val” volleyball tournament at Smithtown High School East, featuring former field hockey and track teammates of Valerie, as well as athletes from High School West.
Valerie was a multi-sport standout as she played field hockey, track, and the club Athletes Helping Athletes. She was also much more than just an athlete as she earned an All-County for music.
The High School East Chamber Choir started the event with a beautiful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” East student Maggie Worontzoff addressed those in attendance. “Let’s play today with the same passion and spirit that Valerie had, and let’s carry her spirit with us always,” she said. A raffle was held with all proceeds benefitting the Kratochvil family.