First Youngstown Area Sports Social is set for Saturday

February 17, 2013 at 12:00a.m.

YOUNGSTOWN

The idea for the first Youngstown Area Sports Social was born in a bar, and it’s not straying too far from its roots.

“It’s just a way to get back together with guys [and women] you haven’t seen in awhile,” said area official Brian Meenachan, one of its founders. “We’re just going to drink beer and [tell stories] and have some camaraderie in the middle of the winter.”

The event will be held from 1 p.m. to 8 on Saturday at the Petri Club on Shady Run Road. Admission is free — drinks are extra — and it’s open to ... well, pretty much anyone who’s ever been involved in sports in the area.

“Officials, umpires, coaches, players, anyone,” Meenachan said. “It doesn’t matter what age you are. It doesn’t matter if you play collegiately or in high school or amateur or summer sports. We just want to have a great time and see some people you haven’t seen in awhile and meet some new people.

“There’s no agenda other than that.”

Meenachan, who expects between 150-200 people, hopes to expand the event next year to include door prizes and a 50/50 raffle. He would also like donate funds to a designated charity or a specific person in need.

“Basically, me and Smerc [Boardman athletic director Dave Smercansky] would be at a bar and see someone and say, ‘Man, we need to get together’ or ‘Have you seen this guy or that guy?’” Meenachan said. “So we thought we’d put something together.

“We’re getting great feedback. I’ve heard from guys in Cleveland and Columbus who are coming back. I’m really looking forward to it.”