Since 1991, a few dedicated patrons have set themselves apart in their love - and support - of Kolo Charities.  In particular, "Team Albatross" has become synonymous with the good, clean fun and charitable acts envisioned by the founders of Kolo Charities.

     Team Albatross was conceived by a group of Scott Kowalkowski's high school buddies from Orchard Lake Saint Mary's. These "gentlemen" chose the name Team Albatross as a reminder of the constant pursuit - yet elusiveness - of greatness on and off the golf course. An "albatross" for the uninitiated is the name given a score of 3-under par on a single golf hole (i.e., a 2 on a par 5 or a hole-in-one on a par 4). Team Albatross has, through the years, earned the privilege of the name "Team Albatross" through its consistent greatness on the golf course evidenced by a steady stream of "albatrosses."

     


     More importantly, however, off the course the team has earned the "Team Albatross" distinction through its pursuit of greatness. Whether the pursuit involves mingling with the folks of Houghton Lake at the Limberlost (the "unofficial" home of the Kolo Open), "euching" at the Korbinski Lodge (or, more recently, the Best Western), lighting up the dance floor at the K of C Hall (the "official" home of the Kolo Open), or rooting on the Detroit Lions - the members of "Team Tross" constantly reach for new heights of greatness.

     The members of Team Albatross (Stefan Stration, Dave Wright, Matt Figurski, Terry Petrucci, Mike Green, and the ever-elusive-yet-effusive Sean Maloney) became lifelong friends while "studying" at Saint Mary's Preparatory in Orchard Lake. There, the seeds were planted and the commitment made to support one another in whatever endeavor the friends pursued. Though life has taken its twists and turns (Blimp and Fig moving out East, husbandry, fatherhood, careers, etc.), the friendships have flourished and strengthened through the years. The gents make an annual pilgrimage to a Detroit Lions game to cheer on the Lions and to spread the goodwill of Kolo Charities. They also look forward to the Kolo Open like a 5-year old looks forward to Christmas.

     We hope that you share some of the excitement and enthusiasm for Kolo Charities that Team Albatross has shown over the years! Dare to be great!