Patrick’s PALS 29th Annual 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament took place on Saturday, May 31 at the TRACK at New Balance in Brighton. It was a great day of basketball, community, and purpose, helping FRAXA Research Foundation move ever closer to a cure for Fragile X syndrome.
Hope Grows Through Fragile X Research and the People Who Believe
FRAXA's efforts to find a cure for Fragile X syndrome are making significant gains. Katie Clapp, FRAXA’s Executive Director and Co-Founder, kicked off the opening ceremonies with an exciting update on Fragile X research: a promising new drug is now in its final stage of clinical trials. Shown to bring about significant improvements in double-blind testing, the drug could become the first FDA-approved treatment for symptoms of Fragile X as early as 2026!
Erich Schutz was recognized for his tireless efforts as the 2025 PALS Honorary Chair. As a Fragile X parent to 5-year-old son Wally, Erich spoke genuinely about the importance of research, the the promise of the current trials, and the need to keep pushing forward with fundraising efforts.
Honoring Those Who Make a Difference
Up next was the recognition of our 2025 Honorary PALS — three individuals making their mark in Boston sports media.
Noa Dalzell (CLNS Media / Celtics reporter) and Kayla Burton (NBC Sports Boston / Celtics host and reporter) are two young and rising stars who were recognized for the quality of their work and the success they’re already experiencing. Chad Finn began at The Boston Globe in 2003 as a sports editor and is now a columnist known for blending knowledge, humor, and perspective while writing about Boston’s beloved teams.
We also honored our 2025 PALS of the Year: Paul Connolly and Eileen Donahue. Paul recently retired as Head Boys Basketball Coach at Newton North after 24 seasons, two state championships, and two other Finals appearances. He continues to serve as a special education teacher and will be back at Newton North this fall for his 30th year.
Eileen is one of the most distinguished coaches in the history of high school athletics — not just in field hockey, but across all sports. Her list of accomplishments is too long to list here, but suffice to say, Watertown Field Hockey is lucky to have her. After retiring as a PE teacher in June, she’ll begin her 40th season as head coach this August.
All-Stars On and Off the Court at Patrick’s PALS
Another full slate of teams showed up to participate at New Balance's state-of-the-art facility. Beyond the basketball, a large turf space served as home for bouncy houses and other children's activities, making it a family-friendly day. There were raffles and a large silent auction. There was breakfast and lunch and an ice cream treat. There were three raffles. And there were a couple of shooting contests with prizes awarded.
The day included some truly special moments and some special guests. We were thrilled to welcome Brock Holt, beloved former Red Sox player, who joined us courtside and met with participants and fans alike. Brock has long been a fan favorite for his work ethic, humor and heart, and he brought all of that (plus a winning smile) to PALS 29.
The double elimination tournament treated those in attendance to some excellent basketball. In the end, the Geoff Gray team (Geoff, a Newton South and Emerson graduate) won the PALS title for the third straight year, edging out the Wardly team (brothers Lucas and Oliver are Newton North graduates) in a close battle.
The Power of Patrick's PALS: Thank You for Your Support
To everyone who contributed in ways big and small, thank you. From our volunteers and sponsors to the players, silent auction donors and bidders, and every individual and family who came out to support us, we are deeply grateful.
A very special thank you to the PALS Board: James & Pamela Vershbow, Jon Pressman, Bill Rome, Steve Savarese, Jim Marks, Scott Katz, Andrew Pressman, Peter Savarese, Dan Marks, and Steven Rome. Your dedication and love continue to drive this event forward.
Patrick’s PALS is proud to have raised over $2.5 million for FRAXA in 29 years. Saturday, May 30, 2026, will mark our 30th anniversary — and we intend to make it another great day as we celebrate three decades of support for FRAXA Research Foundation. Join us at the Patrick’s PALS 30th Annual 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament for this milestone celebration.
Written by
James and Pamela began raising awareness and funds for FRAXA Research Foundation early in their Fragile X journey. Their son Patrick was diagnosed in 1993 at just 11 months old. Since discovering FRAXA in 1995, their fundraising efforts have never stopped — starting with massive yard sales, then moving on to banquets and auctions.
In 1997, they launched Patrick’s PALS 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, held every year on the first Saturday after Memorial Day. They are proud to have raised more than $2.5 million in support of Fragile X research.